designKC - Fall 2023

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Our design work is inspired, holistic, and innovative with unmatched expertise in residential-focused environments.

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At Noble Designs, our passion is designing homes and spaces for our clients that re ect their needs in a style that lasts. We are a full service interior design rm ready to help with your new build, renovation or just simple updates to make your home beautiful.

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The experts at Ferguson | Factory Direct are here to help create a home that’s as extraordinary as you are. Bring your vision to us at Ferguson | Factory Direct. Visit build.com/ferguson or kcfda.com to discover more and find your nearest showroom.

Built by Homoly Construction

228 Eurostar

A Hallbrook home shines bright with a French-inspired kitchen, rich layers and several “jewel box” moments.

200 Black and White

“Bright and airy” meets “moody and shiny” in a new build that grounds itself in duality.

66

SHOP LOCAL

Art is the it-factor of any swoon-worthy space. Read our roundup of four galleries to visit; plus, shop the look at the Little Black Dresser fundraiser event at Starr Homes’ Fall Parade house.

82 LIVE + STAY + PLAY

KCI’s new single terminal and its world-class art collection; plus, two converted schoolhouses get makeovers—and new purposes.

109 COMMUNITY CULTURE

I like Lenexa! This city’s longtime slogan—built on an already exceptional quality of life—is buoyed by continued improvements.

120 THE WELL-LIVED LIFE

A refined ranch, curated for context amid the prairie, serves as a comfortable getaway along the Santa Fe Trail.

133 CREATIVE TYPE

Custom iron accents from artistic metalworkers add substance to new home and renovation projects.

192 Eclectic Modernism

A refreshed ’80s-era MCM-style home at Lake Quivira melds minimalist tendencies with Hollywood glam.

216 A Home to Grow Into

A traditional home with modern flair is staged to patina gracefully for a young Prairie Village family.

112 Living Large

A custom home relishes in generous proportions— and small details that make big impressions.

208 Elevated Entertainment

A hundred-year-old brick Colonial home in St. Joseph, Missouri, looks like business in the front, but it’s a party in the back.

THE FALL ISSUE 2023

143 ROOMS WE LOVE

Three homes impress with stunning entries and staircases.

168 KITCHEN + BATH

A warm, vintage-inspired kitchen renovation keeps a Leawood family (and a company) close; plus, Modern Organic meets Farmhouse in an Instagram-friendly bathroom.

182 PAST PERFECT

An Overland Park designer embraces Colonial Williamsburg style and finds it still a fit for modern life.

244 RESOURCES

248 ADVERTISERS

256 SANCTUARY

A steep hill presents the perfect natural condition for a multihead waterfall in Weston.

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Outback Decks

From the beginning, I always thought this would be The Art Issue. Of course, we have dedicated art stories, including our Shop Local department (page 66), where we feature four local galleries you should visit, plus a brief look at the airport’s new collection that’s put KC—and its selected local artists—on the map (page 82). But as each featured project fell into place, a larger picture emerged. Art is everywhere throughout this issue. And it often makes a room what it is, taking a well-designed space and elevating it even higher. Art can turn a narrow hallway into prime real estate for a showpiece— like Edward Franklin’s giant tic-tac-toe installation at the entry of their Westside spec home (page 152)—and graphic pillows become a canvas for a cozy, sunny spot in a tricked-out pool house (page 208).

Interior designer Jen Wood weaved her favorite artwork throughout her Lake Quivira home on page 192, while designer Kristyn Iman got a pro involved for her client’s home, which we feature on page 143.

Selecting the right paint color can be considered an art form. It certainly takes a trained eye to see the undertones of any color–even (and maybe especially) black and white. Designers Nicole Henson and Marci Gutheil nail those toughies on pages 176 and 200, respectively. We also see fab color selections in Designer Anne Golliher’s use of Farrow & Ball’s minty green Arsenic on her fireplace surround (page 182), as well as Schloegel Design Remodel’s use of Sherwin-Williams’ lush Laurel Woods on a kitchen island and bar (page 168).

While scouting projects for this issue and beyond, I’ve also noticed the artistry of subcontractors who contribute their unique set of skills to homes. In particular, I’ve been impressed with custom metalwork, a topic we cover on page 133. It’s a natural segue into our Rooms We Love department, which follows with three well-executed entries—all with staircases that make a wowser of a first impression.

Then, sometimes, it’s the simple things that stick with me. In the home Mallory Robins and Elizabeth Bennett of Kobel + Co designed for

their Hallbrook client (page 228), I love every single detail, yet a typographic poster in a child’s room has resonated with me most: “I like it. What is it?”

It's a reminder to stay curious about the world. We just adopted a puppy in our family, and I’m vicariously experiencing her adventure and joy. Grass! Blankets! Treats! And so much snuggling and love.

From our hearts to yours—enjoy this issue and all the beautiful things in your life.

Photo by Matt Kocourek

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First the Art, Then the Sofa

Words by Gloria

Have you ever experienced the futility of moving your furniture around and around again with no satisfying result? It’s absurd. However, your furniture placement might not be the only reason why you’re still not loving your personal space.

We’re hardwired to move toward a visual reference that makes us feel good. Even early civilizations drew on the walls of their caves, oftentimes to enhance and add meaning to their dwellings.

Now as a more advanced civilization, we have realized that art conjures emotion through color, composition and a sense of place or memory.

The cultural base in Kansas City that fostered Disney Studios, Thomas Hart Benton and a thriving Crossroads Arts District is a lasting legacy, one that still sustains talent to this day. The results? Beautifully adorned spaces rich with art. Why quibble? The pros at local galleries make it easy for you. They’ll partner and guide you with a sure hand.

That ‘it’ factor that makes a space swoon-worthy? It’s art.

Gale

original. Photo courtesy of Prairiebrooke Arts.

Below: Often, there’s more to telling a story than one piece can provide. That's why when selecting artwork—whether it's a single canvas or a series of pieces—an art consultant can help guide you in the selection, sizing and placement.

Prairiebrooke Arts

A mainstay in Historic Downtown Overland Park, the 6,000-square-foot gallery space includes a collection of original artworks from renowned artists. Blessed with that high visibility, passersby can mull over rotating works always on display.

Leading the family business as a second-generation owner, Megan Hoban picked up the mantle to grow an enterprise that encompasses both custom framing and commercial and residential art. Founded by her mother in 1990, the gallery’s reputation—and offerings—have continued to grow over the past 33 years. Corporate and residential art consulting, conservation framing, delivery and installation make buying artwork at Prairiebrooke a full-service experience.

“We are passionate about the service our team provides when working with clients to find the perfect piece of artwork for their space,” Megan says.

A valued painting or print needs a frame. “This is where we shine,” Megan says. “We’re known for our conservation framing, so you don’t have to search for the right frame. We have you covered.”

7900 Santa Fe, Overland Park, Kansas pbarts.com

Photo by Paul Versluis

Photo courtesy of Prairiebrooke Arts.

Blue Gallery

Experience counts. Kelly Kuhn—the seasoned gallerist, curator and owner of this venerable gallery—has maintained her discerning point of view for more than 20 years. And it’s served her clients well.

Blue Gallery, located on Southwest Boulevard, is an anchor for the Crossroads Arts District.

Routinely working with a carefully chosen talent of 45 artists, collectors realize that Kelly and her husband, David, will suggest the right art for their clients with laser-like focus. “You want a piece to linger in your memory,” she says.

“If you just can’t shake the image in your mind’s eye, it’s probably time to revisit the piece.”

Kelly loves working with artists, making sure they’re nurtured and driven to constantly improve their work. She is a companion to her artists, guiding them to excel. It’s a testament to her keen leadership, considering some who’ve been with her since she opened.

“I want both clients and my artists to have passion about choosing and creating art,” she says. “I will be with clients from start to finish.”

Blue Gallery offers one-on-one and virtual appointments for home and business.

As a tribute, many of the featured artists are locally based. The summer exhibition featured original new works from Jamie Chase, Joe Ramiro Garcia, Brooke Golightly, Karen Matheis, Kelly Porter, William Rainey and Eric Zener. Photo by Kelly Kuhn/Blue Gallery.

118 Southwest Blvd., Kansas City, Missouri bluegalleryonline.com

SHATTERING EXPECTATIONS.

At Wilson, we know design rules. And we know when to break them. Like this non-conformist chandelier. You get to choose the configuration of its five brass rings— then watch as they become glowing halos after dark.

Hoke Ley

Haw Contemporary

Businessman, gallerist and art collector Bill Haw often thinks of his ownership of his West Bottoms gallery as serendipity. Committed to community awareness and establishing the location as a premier gallery, Bill’s reputation has steadily grown since he bought the business—formerly Dolphin Gallery—from founder John O’Brien in 2013.

Long involved in family real estate, Bill has been instrumental in boosting the Stockyards District in the Bottoms—a contribution to continued growth and visibility for local artists. The Livestock Building, which his family owns, is a perfect example, housing artists’ studios in the classic building.

“Our gallery is big,” he says. “We present talent that is in line with our program.”

This inclusive notion means Haw Contemporary isn’t limiting its target clientele to high-end buyers only. “There’s great art you can buy for $700; that’s affordable,” Bill says. “There’s good art at any price.”

He’s also a proponent of representing women artists. Regardless of gender identity, showcasing contemporary art is the goal at Haw—securing Kansas City’s reputation for nurturing exceptional talent. The West and East coasts have numerous resources, but the artists Haw selects create cutting-edge art that measures up—putting KC squarely on the map.

1600 Liberty Street, Kansas City, Missouri hawcontemporary.com

Canadian artist Alayne Spafford renders the ephemeral in her work. With painting as her primary medium, she now incorporates torn bits of paper and fabric, yielding 3-D collages. Photo by Kyle McGuire.

Julie Blackmon, 2021, archival pigment print. As an American photographer growing up in a large Midwestern family, Blackmon reflects on the cacophony of everyday life she experienced. The oldest of nine siblings, she creates photographs using extended family members, including her three children, to deliver intriguing glimpses into her world.

Lisa Grossman, Flux Flow, 2023, oil on canvas. Lawrencebased artist Lisa Grossman is known for her aerial interpretation of our area’s vast landscapes. Grossman, a plein-air painter, is intrigued with the Kaw River, leading her to continue painting its ever-evolving meanderings. She is widely represented in national collections.

Best known for his huge Neo-expressionist oil paintings, Hunt Slonem is adept at painting birds, bunnies and butterflies. Referencing notables like Andy Warhol, Slonem uses similar Warhol-like repetition as a form of creative meditation.

Weinberger Fine Art

Who wants to wake up and see beautiful art illuminating their space? “Most,” says Kim Weinberger, curator, businesswoman and—like her gallery peers—benevolent shepherd to her stable of talent.

Friendly and welcoming is the ambiance that prevails inside Weinberger Fine Art on Southwest Boulevard. “A diversity of visitors generates an insightful diversity of questions,” she says. “We enjoy working with first-time buyers, well-established collectors, interior designers and large-scale architectural projects.”

How do buyers learn about how to buy art? “That’s a well-worn dilemma,” Kim says. “We will explain the artist’s background and how their market

value is established or select the right piece that works for a buyer’s taste. We offer every buyer our advice on how to start a collection based on their individual needs. We also work with an art financing company called Art Money that offers 10-month financing with no interest. This allows the buyer to take their art home immediately. It’s a great option for all buyers, actually.”

Regardless, Kim says her gallery showcases a wider range of artists than most galleries. Emerging artists, such as Lily Mueller, or the well-collected Hunt Slonem, are equally valued.

“We will support and guide each client who considers artists throughout their career,” Kim says.

114 Southwest Blvd, Kansas City, Missouri weinbergerfineart.com

Photo by Charlie Rubin.

Kansas City-based artist Lily Mueller’s highly original paintings and quilts are adorned with a rainbow of color and abstract formality. Her quilts, like her paintings, are inventive and modern, inspired by psychedelia, music and architecture.

Event Details

Shop the Look

Tour Starr Homes’ Fall 2023 Parade Model Home between September 23-October 8, then return for a special holiday event.

November 3-5 Public Hours: 12-5 p.m.

Christmas-lovers have a brand new event to put on their holiday-season schedules!

Twin sisters Emily Contrucci and Elizabeth Van Maanen, the duo behind Little Black Dresser (LBD), have not only fully designed Starr Homes’ new model at Terrybrook Farms Estates, they will be accessorizing it, not just once, but twice!

First, as a full-service design team, LBD is preparing the model with big ideas and gorgeous pieces, from rugs and lighting to furnishings and accessories. Then, between the end of the Fall Parade and the first week of November, they will transform the home for the holidays, so you can come back and shop your favorite finds from the Parade tour, plus get an early start on your Christmas shopping, holiday decorating and hosting must-haves.

LBD has a passion for design, and they work from their hearts.

“We want our kids to see that you can dream and do what you love, but that it’s not truly fulfilling unless you are also sharing your talent, time and energy with others who may be in a tough spot and just need a little extra love,” they say.

Proceeds from the event will be used to upgrade various areas of Mother’s Refuge, an organization whose mission is to “provide shelter and educate homeless pregnant, and parenting young women by providing comprehensive services that empower them to make successful life decisions for themselves and their babies.”

LBD will personally donate their time to the design and remodeling of the home.

Scan here to see inside the home.

Scan here for tickets for this special night including cocktails, hors d'oeuvres and access to shop.

Photo by Matthew Anderson

10803 W. 173rd Terrace, Overland Park, Kansas

Many of the pieces are locally sourced from Charmed House. Find items like these and more on a first-come, first-served basis. Some items may be ordered.

November 2, 5-8 p.m. "VIP Early Access"

Touchdown, Kansas City!

KCI’s new terminal debuts–all spiffed up with a soaring design and inspired experience.

Words by Gloria Gale

“Toto, there really is an Emerald City,” Dorothy may well have exclaimed upon discovering the new KCI airport. She shouldn’t be surprised.

Kansas City’s always been blessed with an abundance of power and light—even more so now as it touts its prismatic and polished new terminal that’s finally taking a bow after several years of careful planning and development.

From start to finish, literally thousands of people have helped produce this $1.5 billion jewel investment, undoubtedly the largest single infrastructure project in Kansas City history. The designers, builders, craftspeople and artists—all forward-thinkers—contributed to a public project that’s as efficient as it is beautiful.

The traveler’s first impression starts right from the check-in hall. Native Missourian and internationally known artist Nick Cave wows with his whimsical wind-spinner installation, The Air Up There. This $1 million scintillating artwork dangling from the rafters is his amuse-bouche to a journey ahead. Photo by From the Ground Up Photography.

Designed locally by BNIM and built by JE Dunn, the new parking garage next to the KCI terminal features colorful creations by Hou de Sousa and Jill Anholt Studio. Photo by From the Ground Up Photography.

According to the principal architects at Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), a driving force behind the design is a commitment to giving passengers an easy journey.

The simple, I-shaped building design yields two levels—one for departures and one for arrival—all meant to reduce traveler confusion. Check-in and security are housed in the upper level’s expansive departure lobby.

Situated on the lower level: baggage claims, customs and an outdoor public garden.

“Once cleared through security, two parallel concourses with retail at the center are linked by a pedestrian passage. All post-security spaces are on the same level—a design move that creates an easier journey for all passengers,” the architects state.

Unlike the former three circular terminals, the new airport now boasts a singular building. Featuring a generous canopy complemented by a glass and aluminum facade, the terminal’s

sleek exterior is accented with rows of Y-shaped columns. In contrast to these traditional construction materials, the interior is designed with warm, natural materials, from the hemlock ceiling down to the marble terrazzo floors.

Architect: Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, @skidmoreowingsmerrill

Contractor: Clark Construction Group, @clarkbuilds

Above: Surprise! No more 1970's circular terminals. Now you pull straight up to a functional drive to drop off passengers. Identified by repetitions of a simple steel design, there's no hassle for an easy walk to check-in. Photo by Michael Robinson Photography/Clark Construction Group.

Left: The 500-foot people mover linking Concourse A to Concourse B is effectively realized with Cloud Gazing. Cloud-like forms suspended from the ceiling is SOFTlab’s interpretation of the rolling regional landscape. Photo by Alan Tansey.

Below: Back down to earth, Leo Villareal’s Fountain is a salute to Kansas City’s designation as "The City of Fountains." Arching metallic forms paired with effervescent LED lighting simulate The City of Fountains’ identity without spilling a drop.

by James Ewing.

Photo

Exceptional aesthetics married with KCMO's One Percent for Art program

Airports have become a canvas for creativity and character.

Coast to coast, newly built airports aim to distinguish themselves with artistic talent worldwide. Kansas City is no exception, seeking meaningful art sourced locally to internationally.

“We were in this call for artwork representing diversity, equity and inclusion from the very beginning,” says James Martin, Kansas City’s public art administrator.

Inspired by the scope and prestige of the largest public art program in Kansas City’s history—with a $5.6 million budget—a field of 1,900 applicants was culled through a rigorous selection process, granting final commissions to 28 standout artists.

The result of this new airport speaks for itself. As Mayor Quinton Lucas stated on opening day, “This is a city in motion.”

Wheels up!

Yet another reason to look up. Willie Cole pays homage to Kansas City’s jazz legend, Charlie Yardbird Parker. The floating sculpture, Ornithology, is cleverly designed with brass alto saxophones reconfigured into birds.

Photo by From the Ground Up Photography.

Left: Experience, memory and place are depicted in painter Kathy Liao’s Hello and Goodbye. Her 2-D painting reveals the fluidity of travel. “When traveling, I think of both the past where I’ve been and the future that’s still unknown,” she says.

Bottom left: Local muralist and activist JT Daniels can’t resist a blank wall. As one of the city’s most prolific artists, he likes to uplift art within an urban community. This three-panel acrylic painting, Midwestern Meanderings, depicts the area’s diverse types of people you could meet in Kansas City.

Photos by From the Ground Up Photography

Back to School(house)

Two historic buildings undergo renovations for a new era and purpose.

Words by Andrea Darr

Eighty-four rural and one-room schoolhouses were built in Douglas County. More than 40 still exist in some format today.

Douglas County Schoolhouse No. 57

Twenty years ago, Brandon Yates bought a house to impress a girl. More specifically, he bought an 1871 stone schoolhouse on 20 acres that had been converted into living space.

A real estate agent friend had sent him the listing.

“Honestly, I don’t know why,” Brandon says with a shrug. “But I thought it was unique.”

His plan worked. That girlfriend—Julie—became his wife. The two of them lived at the Eudora, Kansas, residence for a few years while Brandon ran his electrical contracting business from a newly constructed metal barn on the site. But it wasn’t long before he realized the impracticality of driving from the rural outskirts into town every day. So they bought a family home in Merriam and rented out the schoolhouse.

More than a decade later, when the last renter was ready to move on, Brandon and Julie were ready to reinvest their time and energy in the place—as a weekend retreat.

The building had been converted into a home in the 1980s with two bedrooms, a bath, a kitchen and a living space. That had been enough for a young

Photos by Josie Henderson

Harmony School, built by a Minnesota mason, was in session from 1871 to 1946—just after the Civil War through World War II.

Right: Antique wood chairs and a display cabinet make historical sense in this space. “Most schoolhouses had pictures of Washington and Lincoln,” Julie says, referencing the portraits atop the cabinet.

couple with no kids, but four extra family members had come along since then. It was time for an update.

“It was almost on a whim,” Brandon says, recalling the demo party they organized.

Inside, they wanted to remove the lime mortar covering the walls and expose the original stonework for a warm and rustic look. Striping the walls down was a messy job—but worth it, Brandon says.

“We didn’t know what we’d find underneath,” he recalls. “But you can see how good the level of craftsmanship was.”

The 30- by 40-foot stone structure with 1.5-footthick sandstone walls remained in excellent condition more than 150 years later; it only needed a fresh tuck-point job.

“It’s one of a kind,” Brandon adds. “Every mason looked at it as kind of a masonry marvel.”

In addition to reviving the stone, Brandon salvaged the floors by lifting a couple of layers off (as well as

Above: No. 57 laid out in penny tile is a tribute to Harmony School being the 57th school in Douglas County. The backsplash is made of slate, in honor of the old chalkboards in the schoolhouse.

The cabinets required extra effort to level on the old floors, but the plentiful kitchen now provides a beautiful, functional space for cooking, gathering and eating.

Chair-height wainscot walls hide the electrical work and break up the expanse of stone; marble window sills offer a place to display items.

Above: Students etched their names into the stone walls. An old-school basketball hoop dug up from the yard rests prominently in the entry. Inside, you can get a glimpse of reclaimed wood in a boxed ceiling design, enhanced by color-changing LEDs.

Top right: A coat closet was always a part of the schoolhouse design as a lean-to structure affixed to the stone. Brandon rebuilt the space and raised the ceiling height.

Right: Horizontal beadboard reflects the era appropriately; a polished concrete floor is easy to maintain. The original coat hooks were touched up.

Bottom right: Brandon uncovered the raised panel door jambs, showcasing a melange of past paint colors—pink, gray and teal.

leftover wheat chaff from when the building was used as a grain barn) to get down to the subfloor. The tongue-and-groove system was worn out long ago, so Brandon refinished the planks and used them decoratively on the living room ceiling. He also salvaged the subfloor, which was used as window trim, decorative moldings and a wall display in the primary bedroom.

“I got firsthand experience understanding why reclaimed wood is so expensive—it’s a lot of work,” Brandon says.

He rebuilt the old coat room—constructed outside of the stone structure—where you can still see students’ names etched into the sandstone.

“The new design is a tribute to the original structure and an attempt to make it a modern transitional piece,” Brandon says. “The extra square footage obviously helps, too.”

The biggest transformation occurred in the space plan. The previous owner didn’t utilize the attic, leaving only the main floor for two bedrooms and a skinny bathroom. Nicole Curry of Studio A Architecture drafted a new plan that turned the main-level bedroom into a suite with an adjacent powder bathroom and finished the attic with a bunk room, a

guest room and a full bath. Moreover, she was able to capture that space upstairs and raise the ceiling height downstairs by three feet, offering a feeling of expansiveness in a relatively small 1,200 square feet.

Julie’s favorite part of the new floor plan is a closeted stacked washer/dryer set that’s easily

Salvaged wood warms the restful primary bedroom.

The revamped floor plan includes a built-in closet on the way to the primary bathroom. One of three paintings of the schoolhouse hangs on the bedroom wall.

Finished attic space includes a bunk room (shown here), along with a full bathroom and a guest room.

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accessible near the kitchen. Previously, she had to take dirty laundry down to the cellar, where she would occasionally encounter a snake or two.

“That was really roughing it,” she says.

Even better for everyone, the house is equipped with smart-home technology and responds to functions by voice command and phone app.

Considering all the upgrades in functionality, there was one addition made just for fun.

“The bell was the one thing I took artistic liberty adding,” Brandon notes.

“But,” Julie adds, “you have to climb up to ring it.”

The wary parents could have attached a rope to the bell but feared the kids would ring it nonstop. Instead, the children can busy themselves with four-wheelers and fishing all day, not even allowed inside until it’s dark.

What an old-school idea!

“I’ve done projects over the years,” Brandon says. “This one was on my bucket list until I could do it right. I’m grateful that the opportunity finally came along.”

Architect: Studio A Architecture (now a part of BRR Architecture), @brrarchitecture

Interior Designer: ISOM Collective, @isomcollective

General Construction: GSR Construction

Electrical, plumbing, mechanical, lighting and select design/build features:

KC One Service Company, kconeservice.com

Custom millwork and furniture: Castilleja Furniture, @mattcastilleja

Tall ceilings and an open floor plan make an ideal gathering space, whether it’s the nuclear family of six on weekends or full-scale family blowouts during holidays. On the staircase landing, a new chalkboard pays homage to the past.

Far from its day before running water existed in homes, the primary bath is now a luxurious oasis. The backsplash is a fragment of the original chalkboards from the school.

From History Lessons to Whiskey Classes

Words by Andrea Darr | Photos by Brynn Burns

Entrepreneur Lesli Baker got an itch that she just couldn’t scratch during the COVID-19 pandemic. The only way to move past it was to start something entirely new.

“Something I have learned about myself over the years of owning businesses is that I enjoy the creativity and challenge of starting a new business,” she says.

She grew up in the tiny town of Somerset, Kansas, between Paola and Louisburg, an area often thought of as our local wine country. But Lesli wanted to give visitors another option.

Many of us might have drunk more than usual during those unusual times, but a refreshing cocktail shared with neighborhood friends and strangers-yet-to-be-friends sure sounded good to her.

What better place to do that than in a longstanding place of community? During the 1920s to 1960s, Somerset Schoolhouse was central in the small town, which also boasted

a post offi ce, market and railroad depot. More importantly to Lesli’s family, both her grandfather and father met their lifelong loves at the school.

“There’s so much history in that old building,” Lesli says. “The ability to give this schoolhouse life again was the challenge I had been looking for for some time.”

School was out forever after 1964, and the building was converted into living quarters. It had nearly disappeared behind unmanaged overgrowth when Lesli found it again in 2021 and bought it.

“I had no idea what to do with it at first,” she recalls. “I wanted a place where there was something for everyone. I love to shop and have a cocktail, and my husband, Jimmy, loves to

Somerset Schoolhouse was built in the 1920s. A recent renovation to the exterior and an update to the interior have transformed its purpose.

Delightful schoolhouse-themed cocktails are available in the basement-level speakeasy. Jeff Borker of The Classic Dram specializes in pairing premium bourbons with confectionery and offers private whiskey tastings for groups of six or more.

catch a game and enjoy a glass of whiskey. I was hopeful that other people enjoyed this, too."

Lesli and her family rolled up their sleeves and gutted the space down to the original walls, exposing the old siding and brick.

“We tried to keep as much of the original as possible,” she notes.

After diligently preserving the basic structure, the upper level became a home decor shop filled with locally sourced items. The basement transformed into The Faculty Lounge—a speakeasy with Whiskey Ambassador Jeff Borker at the helm. Surrounded by eggplant-colored walls and low wood ceilings, guests can sit back on vintage furnishings with a cleverly named cocktail or local beer and play board games.

There’s more action on the back patio, decked out with black-and-white umbrellas to match the building’s new paint and trim colors. Yard games and a fire pit extend the outdoor season— and the reason—that people come to Somerset Schoolhouse. Lesli has hosted the return of past graduates (of which the eldest is now 96), as well as current teachers and administrators of local schools who can partake in libations unseen by students.

The times a visitor has told Lesli: “My mother went to a school like this…” have made the journey worth it.

“The best part of this is that it starts a conversation,” Lesli says. “We are bringing you to a rural area where you can be at ease, talk to your neighbors and meet new friends. We want you to feel as if you are stepping back in time and feel like you are part of this small community.”

Above: Live music, cornhole and horseshoes are popular reasons to visit. A new outbuilding— The Bus Stop—is being added for the growing number of large gatherings, such as their annual Kentucky Derby party. “We have a lot of fun over here,” Lesli says.

Below: Home goods and gifts are for sale on the main level of the schoolhouse. "I love finding unique local products that customers might not know about," Lesli says.

28740 Somerset Road, Paola, Kansas somersetschoolhouse.com

Far from its day before running water existed in homes, the primary bath is a luxurious oasis awaiting the Yateses after spending their days working or playing outside.

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“I Like Lenexa”

ATthe heart of Johnson County, Kansas, lies Lenexa’s peaceful and picturesque suburbia—a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of the surrounding metro. Known for its manicured neighborhoods, abundant greenscapes and friendly hometown vibes, Lenexa’s wellestablished charms have drawn many new residents and businesses to the area for decades. And many have never left.

“It’s a great place to raise a family and to retire,” says builder and developer Bruce L. Rieke. “Once people move here, they don’t want to leave.”

As a Lenexa native and local business owner, Bruce has experienced firsthand the city’s growth—and its dedication to serving and enriching the tight-knit community. “Those who are looking for a new home want the smalltown atmosphere with all the amenities of a downtown metro… Lenexa has it all,” he adds. From the festivals and farmers market to the 30-plus pristine parks and 45 miles of trails, there’s a wealth of recreational, healthyliving activities to enjoy, all within city limits.

Nicknamed the “City of Festivals,” Lenexa hosts an eclectic variety of fun events, such as the

This city’s longtime slogan—built on an already exceptional quality of life—is buoyed by continued improvements.

Words by Savannah Rieke Newson

Fun for the whole family at the Great Lenexa BBQ Battle 2022.

Photo by Bill Harrison.

Photo courtesy of the City of Lenexa

READY TO CALL LENEXA HOME? CHECK OUT THESE NEW-HOME COMMUNITIES.

Cottonwood Canyon

Discover maintenance-free bliss and panoramic views of nature at Cottonwood Canyon. Hidden in the hills near Lenexa City Center and Canyon Farms Golf Course, this distinguished development is the perfect blend of natural settings and urban convenience. It boasts premium homesites and top-quality homes ranging from $600,000 to over $1 million—most with private golfcourse and waterfront views. Found just north of Prairie Star Parkway and Ridgeview Road, Cottonwood Canyon is only minutes away from stores, restaurants, recreation and highways. On-site amenities also include the HOA pool and clubhouse, with the best scenery in Kansas City.

At Cottonwood Canyon, builders include B.L. Rieke Custom Homes, Don Julian Builders and J.S. Robinson Fine Homes. Three specs are currently available from John Moffitt and Kevin Stallings. There is also potential for future resale opportunities.

cottonwoodcanyonks.com

Mize Hill

Developed by Lambie Custom Homes, this maintenance-provided community features fine-quality, Lambie-built twin villas starting in the $400,000s. Located at Prairie Star Parkway and Clare Road, Mize Hill is adjacent to scenic Mize Lake and Cedar Station Park—a 74-acre preserve featuring paved trails, wildlife and more. It’s conveniently close to Lenexa City Center, various highways and Olathe schools.

The newly opened development is in its first phase, with many lots and villas for sale. Available floor plans include the four-bedroom Lakewood and the threebedroom Newberry. Mize Hill also offers multiple elevation options, including sloped, level, daylight and walkout lots. Visitors can stop by the community's new model and sales offi ce for more information. mizehillks.com

Spinach Festival, Great Lenexa BBQ Battle and Sar-Ko Aglow. Niche hobbyists, art lovers and food-and-drink connoisseurs will also find plenty of things to do—and plenty of options to explore when in the market for a new home.

“Lenexa has affordable living, especially compared to other similar communities,” says local real estate agent Stephanie Bulcock. “There are living options for everyone. Luxury-home living, golf-course views, apartments, lofts, twin villas, single-

family homes, retirement communities… So many people from other communities are seeking homes in Lenexa.”

Another major appeal is the city’s shining gem, Lenexa City Center: a live-workplay hotspot for those seeking a hip-andhappening downtown urbanite experience. Located just west of I-435 and 87th Street, the 69-acre, mixed-use development is a rapidly growing, well-polished mini-metropolis—a vision more than 20 years in the making.

“[Lenexa City Center] turned out greater than we could have ever imagined,” says Michael Boehm, Lenexa’s beloved and wellaccomplished mayor of nearly 21 years. “It went from a field in the middle of nowhere to a prime destination.”

Born from the landmark Lenexa Vision 2020 plan of 1997, the stunning urban-modern campus—along with many other target areas of development—was a multi-decade commitment upheld by strong communitygovernment cooperation, leadership and common purpose.

John Kroeker, a West Lenexa-based resident and real estate agent, has witnessed tremendous growth over the past two decades. "[W]e've seen three award-winning golf courses, city parks, walking trails, lakes and so much more come along and thrive during this time," he explains. The miles of picturesque trails around Lake Lenexa and Black Hoof Park (pictured here) are one such amenity.

Food Truck Frenzy is a favorite local event at the new City Center campus. "Residents seem to love the level of convenience and activities in the area," says Bridget Kiggins, a real estate agent. Photo by Bill Harrison.

Photo by Bill Harrison.

Timber Rock

Enjoy lush woodland views and resort-style amenities at Timber Rock, a B.L. Rieke Community. Conveniently located just north of Prairie Star Parkway and Lone Elm Road, this premier new-home community boasts easy highway access, well-maintained natural landscapes and paved walking trails with access to Lake Lenexa’s own trail system. Its upscale amenity center consists of a clubhouse, pool, kitchen, indoor-outdoor living area, playground and sports court. Students can also attend the Olathe School District.

Prices start at $1 million, and several lots are currently available for purchase. Prospective buyers can bring their own builder and custom plan, or the Timber Rock team can help match them with a builder and floor plan. Two new spec homes—one by B.L. Rieke Custom Homes and the other by Helm Construction—are now underway, as well.

timberrockks.com

WaterCrest Landing

Experience easy-living and affordable luxury in this new-home community at 90th Street and Monticello Road—right across the street from Lake Lenexa. Managed by Kennedy Group Realty, this multi-phase development offers single-family, villa and patio housing options. Its impressive selection of floor plans, spec homes and model homes are built by top builders, such as Spiess Custom Homes, Rob Washam Homes and Comerio Homes. Many highly desirable lots are also available, from wooded walkouts to lake and park views—all within the Olathe School District.

WaterCrest's model row and welcome center are now open daily to visitors. The forthcoming amenity center will provide resident-exclusive access to a pool and cabana, pickleball and basketball courts, a mini-golf course and a catch-and-release fishing lake.

watercrestlandingkc.com

ONLINE EXCLUSIVE

Builder: Helm Construction, @helmconstructionkc

Designer: Regan Romero Design, @reganromerodesign

Photo by Nancy Armstrong

Living Large

A custom home relishes in generous proportions— and small details that make big impressions.

Words by Megan Felling | Photos by Matthew Anderson

David Helm of Helm Construction is a self-described maximizer. His custom 1.5-story home in Lenexa’s Timber Rock subdivision isn’t just about size—with six bedrooms and six and a half baths—it’s dialed into details that elevate the experience of living.

For example? “The average house is around 3,000 square feet, but 3,500 just feels better,” David explains.

He has come to that conclusion after 20 years in the

industry. And he has made other discoveries about what works, what feels good and what could be done better.

“Three-foot-wide doors are typical, but a three-foot-six opening makes it easier to maneuver,” he notes, adding, “And there’s a full five feet between the cooktop and the island in this home.”

Scan the QR code above to see all the details inside this visionary house.

The Enclave at Manchester Park

Find suburban tranquility at The Enclave at Manchester Park, a new single-family home community in West Lenexa—established just south of the Manchester Park Elementary School on Prairie Creek Road. This highly anticipated development will feature 60 premium homesites, with all homes being built by prestigious builders Bickimer Homes and James Engle Custom Homes. Prices will start at $650,000.

Phase One is now open, with multiple spec homes under construction; prospective buyers can choose their preferred lot, builder and floor plan or select from the Enclave’s available inventory. The many available, awardwinning floor plans range from two to single stories and can be customized to the homebuyers’ preferences. In addition, two model homes—one by each builder—are finished and open to visitors.

enclaveatmanchesterpark.com

Silverleaf

Explore the picturesque and well-planned Prime Development community of Silverleaf, one of West Lenexa’s premier maintenance-provided developments. Bordering the south side of Black Hoof Park along Monticello Road, this growing neighborhood of 62 luxury villas features an abundance of streamways, berms and landscaping—all prudently placed to ensure every home in every phase will back to green space. The community’s pedestrian trail also connects to public sidewalks and park trails. Other amenities around the community include Lake Lenexa, Lenexa City Center and the Olathe School District.

The Silverleaf team of builders—JFE Construction, Crown Builders, Prairie Homes, Hilmann Home Building and Pauli Homes—offer several floor plans for prospective buyers. A model row will feature five models, one for each builder.

silverleafks.com

Prairie View at Creekside Woods

Tour exceptional lots and incredible homes in Prairie View at Creekside Woods. This older yet revitalized community by DCB Development on the west side of K-7 Highway is thriving and attracting a lot of new residents from a broader demographic. It accommodates all types of homes, from ranches to larger layouts, and a wide range of budgets. Creekside’s team of builders—DCB Homes, New Mark Homes, Gabriel Homes, Pauli Homes and Classic Homes—also provide prospective buyers with a large selection of floor plans. Amenity-wise, the community enjoys an updated pool, easy highway access and proximity to Lenexa’s best amenities and top-ranking schools.

The current phase, the fourth plat, has 77 lots and a price range of $575,000 to over $900,000; it also features an abundance of green space, native trees and natural landscaping. The fifth plat, containing 29 lots, is expected to open late this year.

creeksidewoodskc.com

“City commitment empowered private investment,” Mayor Boehm explains, reflecting on the rewarding endeavor. “It was the citizens’ vision… The residents and voters believed we would make it happen.”

A vision fulfilled with 20/20 clarity, Lenexa City Center now features an array of unique shops, restaurants, hotels, living and recreation options, office spaces and more, with continued plans to expand and evolve. A cultural and communal gathering place, the campus also houses the new Lenexa City Hall, Lenexa Rec Center and Lenexa Public Market—the first multicultural food hall in Kansas City.

The Lenexa Farmers Market, located on the shaded bottom floor of the parking garage at the civic campus, takes place on Saturdays, April to October, and also on Tuesdays, Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend. Photo by Bill Harrison.

Community orchestra. Photo by Yanping Zhu.

KNOWS WHEN TO SAY “NO,” BUT STILL HASN’T SAID IT. HAS A SERVANT’S HEART AND A UNRELENTING WILL TO USE IT.

MAY NOT KNOW THE ANSWER BUT DEFINITELY KNOWS SOMEONE WHO DOES.

LAST: NEGOTIATOR

We don’t sell things, we serve people. Our job is to take the ‘un’ out of the word ‘unknown’ so you can be as informed, prepared, and comfortable as possible with the home buying or home selling process. If you need it, we can find it. Especially if what you need is shaped like a house.

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Other major projects underway in and around City Center include the AdventHealth wellness campus, Restaurant Row, Kiewit office expansion and the mixeduse Reflections at City Center office and residential development. Plans for an 88,000-square-foot double hotel and retail space at City Center’s central block are also forging ahead.

“There’s development happening in all corners of Lenexa,” says CEO Ashley Sherard of the Lenexa Chamber of Commerce. In 2022 alone, Lenexa issued around $332 million in new-construction permits, making it one of the top years for construction in the city’s history. This economic boom—guided by the community-driven Vision 2040 plan—will help pave the way for more development, resulting in a higher tax base and more quality-of-life enhancements for the entire community.

“We’ve had a great 20 years, and the momentum is there for another great 20 years,” Ashley says. “If we all stay committed to the hard work of planning what decisions need to be made now to ensure Lenexa remains a community of choice in the future, Lenexa will be unstoppable.”

Far from its day before running water existed in homes, the primary bath is a luxurious oasis awaiting the Yateses after spending their days working or playing outside.

Chili Challenge 2022. Photo by Bill Harrison.

Cinco de Mayo Friday Night Sound Bites 2023. Photo by Bill Harrison.

Fishing is a popular pastime at Lake Lenexa—a 35-acre, deep-water reservoir with a nationally acclaimed dam and spillway facility. Photo by Kerry Erington.

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Flint Hills Finery

A rustic-modern ranch, curated for context amid the prairie, serves as a comfortable getaway along the Santa Fe Trail.

Words by Jessica Bahr | Photos by Ryann Ford

Anyone who says the drive across Kansas is boring has obviously missed the Flint Hills. The rocky band of native prairie, rolling from eastern Kansas to northern Oklahoma, is beautiful and unexpected as it rises from the Great Plains. At some points along the major interstates that cross the hills, there’s nothing but tallgrass as far as the eye can see.

But beyond the view of the highway, near an original site off the Sante Fe Trail, there’s a grand rustic-modern ranch nestled between sky and prairie. It’s the vision of a homeowner who

desired a remote escape, not just for himself and his hurried urban life but also for a wealth of family and friends to enjoy.

The architect for the project, Aaron Dyck with BBN Architects, described the scene as you approach: “Imagine visiting this remote corner of the Flint Hills... The vast prairie, the sun and wind, the fresh air. You drive—preferably windows down—on gravel roads past fields, orchards, creeks and meadows…”

And there it stands, inviting you with a broad covered patio, as its steel roof and siding reflect

The warm glow of the lodge at twilight is an inviting sight. Its sleek standingseam metal roof is the perfect union of form and function, reflecting the vast blue Kansas sky. “The long east-west orientation and broad roof overhang optimize solar exposure and create sheltered space,” Aaron explains.

Below: The ranch home features a large back patio where the family and guests relax on David Sutherland teak chairs around the cast concrete fire pit after a day of outdoor adventuring on the rural estate. Wild turkey, fox and deer have been known to saunter past the custom dining set by Richard Wrightman.

“There’s a real honesty and truth of the materials used here. If it’s wood, it’s really wood. If it’s meant to be stone, it’s solid, thick stone, not a veneer.”

- Interior Designer Laura Britt

the surrounding beauty. The thoughtful gardens and landscaping further settle and soften the home into its natural setting.

Plans for the 6,000-square-foot home began in the spring of 2017 when the homeowner coldcalled BBN’s founding principal, Brent Bowman. Initially, Brent took the lead on the project, as Aaron worked alongside him to collaborate with the homeowner and create something refined and elegant yet comfortable. Brent, who retired before the project was completed, recalled the project with fondness.

“We recognized in each other a mutual respect for the landscape and context,” Brent says. “The homeowner had deeply researched the history of the property and sought us out in part because of our passion for the Flint Hills. This shared vision made working together a real joy and privilege. It was clear from the very first phone call that this was a special project.”

This spacious “grown-up” mudroom suits the homeowner’s active outdoor lifestyle, with wide cubbies that allow them to sit down and put on boots, and the hooks inside can hold bows, arrows and other equipment. The custom-made amenities table by Clubcu centers the room and is equally perfect for cleaning equipment as it is for cutting florals.

Highlighting the use of mixed materials, the welcoming front patio also showcases the beauty of simple finishing touches.

DESIGN + BUILD + LIVING

As it started, Brent, Aaron and the homeowner worked together to develop the master plan for the whole of the rural estate. This plan included agricultural and ranching operations, land managed for recreational hunting, utility buildings, nature trails, restored native habitats, gardens, creeks and springs—not to mention the main retreat house now known as “The Lodge.”

“We partnered with the homeowner in choosing from among four or five other possible locations around the property,” Aaron explains. “The site chosen is at the head of a gently sloping hill with panoramic views to the south over a vast meadow that has been restored to native prairie and wildflowers.”

With the perfect setting chosen and the build set in motion by BHS Construction, interior designer Laura Britt of the Austin-based Britt Design Group

A gallery wall featuring some of the homeowner’s priceless art collection greets visitors upon entry. “We worked with a gallerist who shipped all the art to the site and coordinated the installation,” Laura says. “Then we felt like it needed something to ground the space, so we designed this custom bench.” The long walnut bench, with its metal straps and expressed joinery, is a one-piece illustration of the whole home’s solid, simple and enduring sensibility.

The chef-quality galley kitchen features white oak cabinets and long spans of honed black granite. The double Dornbracht faucets and Julien sink allow multiple cooks to prepare meals while others can watch from the wood bar-height counter. The glass cabinet at the far end holds bespoke, hand-thrown pottery from Austin-based potter Keith Kreeger.

A cast-bronze mirror bears the prints of its handmade quality and is the centerpiece of the lodge’s powder room. Its solid stature is balanced by the playfulness of the apparatus-style lighting fixture to the right, complete with hand-carved stone finials to add texture and color.

“The exposed timber structure in the great room is a real feature,” Aaron says. “The lighting was sensitively designed to highlight the structure in the evenings, and the added height and detail make the space feel grand.”

joined the team in the summer of 2019. For Laura, whose work tends toward a modern aesthetic in urban or suburban settings, the pairing of rustic character was a welcome departure.

“There’s a real honesty and truth of the materials used here,” Laura says. “If it’s wood, it’s really wood. If it’s meant to be stone, it’s solid, thick stone, not a veneer. It’s real leather, wool or silk—no faux products. The genuine materials give you beautiful texture and pattern, but also a sense of durability.”

The architecture and design team’s choice of lasting materials for the lodge’s exterior and interior upholds the original intention that, however elevated and refined, the home should be appropriate to the rural context. These materials include local limestone, formed concrete walls and columns, metal cladding, finely crafted oak cabinets and an exposed timber structure.

As envisioned, the home fully takes advantage of the view, with large windows and glass doors spanning each side of the house. Inside, the lodge’s living space is generous, with a chefquality kitchen that’s enjoyed by family, staff and guests. The home also includes a private office for the busy homeowner, as well as sleeping rooms with specific features added for different family members.

Cashmere Loro Piana throws, wool Jonas lounge chairs and a sumptuous A. Rudin sofa soften the space with their natural textiles. The leather-topped coffee table was custom-sized for the room, then fabricated and finished by Liaigre and Troscan.

really simple and functional.”

Brent, Aaron and Laura agreed that there were practical challenges related to the estate’s remoteness. “Sourcing reliable, clean water was one of our first critical decision points,” Brent says. “Several existing water wells needed to be rehabilitated and cleaned of contaminants, and a new well was drilled to serve the lodge.”

Additionally, one of the architects’ conservation efforts included designing a water collection and storage system. This underground cistern used for landscape irrigation also provides a water reserve to fight wildfires.

For Laura, who procured every finishing touch— from furniture and chandeliers to fl atware and bath towels—the remote location presented a transportation and delivery challenge. But one that was well worth it.

“It was really a fully turnkey installation,” Laura says. “Sometimes, as a designer, you don’t get to see that level of detail and completion, so I really appreciated that.”

Architect: BBN Architects, @bbnarchitects

Interior Designer: Britt Design Group, @brittdesign.group

Builder: BHS Construction, @bhsconstruction

playing outside.

Above: In the primary bath, the white oak cabinetry topped with dark-gray leathered granite echoes the main living area and kitchen. Cast-bronze mirrors by Holly Hunt are centered over each sink and reflect art by Bryan Nash Gill. Perforated metal wall sconces hang on either side and offer interesting light patterns when illuminated. Custom millwork frames the view from the primary bedroom window. “We used this beautiful wool plaid, almost like men’s suiting fabrics, for the shade,” Laura explains. “And the window seat also functions as your suitcase ledge. We left it stone so that it would be

The bed linens incorporate the custom logo of the ranch; the bed itself was hand-stitched on-site by a master craftsman who traveled across the country to personally manage the upholstery details for this project.

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BUILDING A HOME AS UNIQUE AS YOU, BEGINS WITH COSTAIN CONSTRUCTION

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Malleable Ideas

Words by Andrea Glinn | Photos by Craig Keene

Wheat & Waves

Phillipe Leitner is an easy-going artist and fabricator, a Southern California native, surfer and entrepreneur who has called Kansas home for the last 15 years. When Phillipe’s children were first born, he was a stay-at-home dad while his wife, Krystal—also an entrepreneur— ran and grew her boutique barbershop business, Buffalo Mane. While home, Phillipe tinkered, did some design-build work and decided to learn to weld. With the help of YouTube, Phillipe was able

to pick up the basics and do a few small projects around the house.

His neighbors, who happen to be Kevin and Molly Jarvis, founders of Brasstacks Design + Build, were eager to test his newly acquired skills and asked if he could build a sink base for one of their projects. Thrilled with the results, they realized he had quite the knack for metalwork and continued to offer him increasingly challenging and larger-scale jobs.

From handrails to glass-and-steel walls, custom iron accents make an appearance in many new homes and renovation projects. Meet two metalsmiths who are not only handy but artistic.

This custom Wheat & Waves handrail makes a refined addition at the 2022 Artisan home built by Cardinal Crest Homes. Phillipe usually collaborates with the interior designer on the design and will create a mock-up, if necessary for approval.

Stair handrails and guardrails became a common request, and other contractors and builders started approaching him for welding work, too, including Cardinal Crest Homes, Cicada Co., Erickson Build Co. and Centric Homes.

His business—Wheat & Waves—has evolved, with interior glass-and-steel storefronts, doors, windows and partitions now being the largest sector of his fabrication business.

In addition to fabricating items for builders and interior designers, Phillipe is often hired by private clients. He loves working directly with homeowners who give him an

opportunity to do the design work alongside the welding and fabrication work.

Phillipe considers himself more of an artist than a tradesperson—beyond metalworking, he is a painter. He paints on canvas in his spare time for fun but will also do commissioned work for clients and projects.

And, as if raising a family, running a small business and being a painter all weren’t enough to keep him busy, Phillipe is also a dreamer with big ideas. His current efforts are on the development side of things, which allow him to think creatively, continue to challenge himself and bring the things he loves to the place he calls home.

Above: This continuous handrail connects three levels of open stairs.

Right: In this Northland home, Phillipe fabricated a custom glassand-steel storefront to separate the office from the primary living space. Interior storefronts have become his most popular fabrication item.

Wheat & Waves, @wheatandwaves

Kansas City Metalworks

Asheer Akram founded Kansas City Metalworks in 2008, only two years after graduating from the Kansas City Art Institute with a BFA in Sculpture. When a local architect wandered into his shop in 2007 and asked him to collaborate on a project, Asheer embraced the opportunity and established his own company.

He hired his first workers in 2008, and for the first few years, he ran a small operation with only a couple of employees. But Asheer

has proven himself a competent businessman who has grown Kansas City Metalworks into a thriving enterprise, employing a handful of talented fabricators, full-time draftsmen and several office admins. Today, the company produces miscellaneous architectural metal components, including handrails, steel doors and windows, fences,

In this 2015 remodel on Lee Boulevard, Asheer Akram designed and fabricated the guardrails, gate, exterior stairs and canopy structure in collaboration with Lorax Design Group and Kara Kersten Design. Photos by Travis Bechtel.

gates, pergolas, fire pits and public art. A sliver of their work is commercial, but primarily they work in the residential market on million-dollarplus homes.

Asheer’s business continues to grow as local development booms, but unfortunately, he can’t take on every project in the city. There are limits to how much work a small business can handle, and there are not enough fabricators to meet local demands.

This situation is a bit surprising, considering that the grandfather of architectural metals—A. Zahner Company—has been headquartered in Kansas City for more than 125 years; one would think there would be plenty of skilled tradesmen around. But those workers tend to stay at Zahner, a unionized company that pays well, so the need for trained metalsmiths persists.

“There is a lot of opportunity for the smaller one- and two-man operations to scale up,”

Asheer says, to fill the void in the market and keep the jobs local. Even though that would potentially create more competition for him, Asheer hopes some aspiring entrepreneurs will seize the opportunity and help the local industry flourish.

He admits that his own transition from independent artist to small-business owner has not been easy, but he has no plans to slow down. Yet, as his company takes on larger architectural projects, he becomes more removed from the fabrication process, instead spending his time managing the business, estimating projects and meeting with clients— and he realizes this isn’t for everyone.

“The only time I actually touch metal anymore is when I make sculpture,” Asheer admits. Which, luckily, he gets to do for clients from time to time. Creating abstract sculptures in cast bronze, aluminum or ceramic stokes his deep-rooted passion for working with metal and reignites his creativity. Returning to his roots replenishes the reserves he needs to lead his team. For that, he does very well.

Kansas City Metalworks, @kcmetalworks

This home included 350 feet of railing, a custom 10-foot vent hood, sculpture, custom lighting and more. Asheer designed and fabricated the handrail and stair structure in conjunction with Noble Designs, Wolfgang Trost Architects and Cecil & Ray Homes.

Photo by Asheer Akram.

Below: Asheer designed this outdoor copper, stainless steel and aluminum fire pit for Lorax’s Overland Park office in collaboration with owner Kurt Kraisinger. Photo by Asheer Akram.

This spiral staircase railing and structural steel were designed with Urban Prairie Architectural Collaborative for Kala Performance Homes.

Photo by Asheer Akram.

Designed by Natalie Merrill

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At the entry sits a platform bench, designed by George Nelson in 1947 and purchased via DWR. Custom cabinetry throughout home fabricated by Bootlace Design & Build, featuring pulls from Tom Kundig’s 12th Avenue Iron. Painting by Jenny Sharaf (via Art Consultant Toma Wolff with Byron Cohen Gallery); candlesticks from CB2.

Making an Entrance

Three homes impress with stunning entries and staircases.

Words by Savannah Rieke Newson | Photos by Jessica Cain

The light-filled kitchen is purposely devoid of upper cabinets, allowing Mosa's mural collection wall tile, sourced from Virginia Tile, to shine. Cacti from High and Dry Cactus Co.

Below: The front facade of this home is mysterious from the street. Brick walls create a private front courtyard. An opening in the courtyard roof allows light to flood the large kitchen window and front door. A modern take on the Adirondack chair, seating by Loll Designs encircles a Blu Dot coffee table that Kristyn had powder-coated in blue.

Client-Requested Courtyard

Home design is an art form. A practice of patience and diligence, the act of creating a beautiful and unique design that works demands imagination and experimentation.

Kristyn Iman, the owner and founder of Design Spout, is a pro designer with an exceptional eye for finding the perfect balance—a talent showcased in this custom home with big architectural elements and colorful curiosities.

Built by RM Standard Construction in collaboration with architecture firms Huff t and Bickford & Company, ‘Fairway Modern’ is a brick residence exuding clean-lined modern style with casual-chic fl air. Architecturally, it features an open-concept floor plan, numerous oversized picture windows—framed in black— tall and angled ceilings and a courtyard entryway concept.

“To enter the home, you walk between the tall, narrow brick walls along the slate path with courtyards to the left and right,” Kristyn explains, noting how the front entrance feels special and unique.

A stunning yet light-as-air staircase greets all at the front entry.

The surrounding charcoal brick walls and landscaping provide a nice balance of privacy and airflow. Meanwhile, the intimate, stained wood-slat roof contrasts beautifully with the brick exterior. The roof also has an opening cut above each courtyard space, which, according to Kristyn, “allows light to flood the large kitchen window and front door.”

Inside, a sizable foyer reveals a row of gray cabinets with a white waterfall-edge top, a delightful abstract painting by Jenny Sharaf— and a jaw-dropping open staircase.

“The staircase is the ‘wow factor’ in the home,” Kristyn says. “We love the juxtaposition of the stout details in the stair treads and steel

“The Fairway home is open and casual, has great volumes and pretty views,” Kristyn says. The easy-going living area overlooks the courtyard patio, which she says is an awesome spot for lounging with your morning coffee. The ceiling’s natural ash wood-slat design—similar in tone to the white oak floors—helps soften the space. A handsome yet comfortable sofa from Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams faces a charcoal-colored brick fireplace surround. Coffee table by Bernhardt Design.

Below: The art-friendly dining rooms stimulates conversation. The dining table is by Matt Castilleja; the dining chairs are Laclasica by DWR. The painting is by Michael Kruger (via Art Consultant Toma Wolff with Byron Cohen Gallery), and the platter on the table is by Emily Reinhardt with The Object Enthusiast.

stringer with the airy, trim-less glass. The contrast of these materials brings balance to the architecture of the stairs.”

Though a hefty feature, the open staircase appears almost weightless—a feeling produced by the selection of materials, abundant natural light and white-painted walls.

“Fairway Modern is a bright and beautiful family home, especially on a sunny day,” Kristyn commented in a recent Instagram post. “The taller ceilings make the space feel so nice.”

This light-and-bright feeling is not only present in the entryway. Kristyn also incorporated a clean, minimalist palette of white walls and ceilings, white countertops and custom fl at-panel cabinetry universally throughout the home, with only a few exceptions.

Though the color white is abundant, the accessorizing is minimal. Kristyn stayed true to the modern-minimalist vibe by selecting a few key accent pieces for each space. She focused

Located not far from the kitchen, the wet bar is an ideal party-hosting accessory. Anonymous Women | Really Reading, a photo by Patty Carroll, captures the eye and the imagination in the small space.

FRENCH VASSILIER

C. 1780

79.5 X 18 X 85.5””H”

The laundry/mudroom is efficiently designed as the main entry off the garage, with open lockers and hooks, a desk area and a display for kids' accomplishments. "We took advantage of the tall ceilings with a stacked washer and dryer and a surplus of storage to the ceiling," Kristyn adds.

on color and texture, strategically formulating a fun yet comfortable balance. From cacti in terracotta pots in the kitchen and a pair of Eames chairs in the living room to the wood-and-marble dining table custom-made by Matt Castilleja, the eclectic range of conversation-starter pieces is intriguingly diverse. Though Kristyn clearly excels at mixing and editing, she finds the most joy from working with clients.

“Designing for families and catching glimpses of them enjoying their home is what it’s all about,” she says.

Interior Designer: Design Spout, @designspout

Architect of Record: Bickford & Company, @bickymon

Design Architect: Huff t, @_huff t

Contractor: RM Standard Construction, @rmstandardconstruction

Resources: Page 244

Below: A black-framed window draws the eye forward into the primary bathroom. On one side is a custom mirror fabricated by Keegan FitzGerald. On the other is a frameless glass shower showcasing Crossville Retro Active tile and a shower bench made of recycled resin.

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The garden level encompasses all the home’s living spaces, including the gourmet kitchen, dining room, living room and access to the outdoor patio. “The garden level is open across all 24 feet of the floor plate, allowing ample daylight and views at every corner of the space,” says Dan Brown, AIA.

Westside Context

Words

Amulticultural gem, the vibrant Kansas City neighborhood of Westside is brimming with diverse artistry, history and heritage. Though a modern addition to this traditional neighborhood, the Summit Ridge 2— one part of a twin home project—still fits right in.

“The style is best described as ‘contextual modern,’” says Dan Brown, the co-founder of SixTwentyOne, who collaborated with developer Edward Franklin Building Co. on the project. “We believe that a successful design fits into its context, respecting the rich history of the neighborhood and its existing architecture.”

by Savannah Rieke Newson | Photos by Matthew Anderson

Encased by steel railings and a wall of windows, the suspended open staircase is a custom masterpiece from Iron Path Steel and Dane Fabrication. White oak treads balance the metal-heavy design with a lighter textural element that visually ties to the upper level’s hardwood flooring.

The team drew inspiration from the area’s single-story homes, which feature narrow lots and, as Dan eloquently puts it, an “intimate adjacency to the street.” With a compact width and a daunting 14-foot drop only 10 feet from the curb, the lots presented some architectural hurdles.

“[Both] lots sat vacant for years because individuals and developers could not envision how to successfully navigate the strange terrain,” Dan explains. “We saw an opportunity to embrace this unique aspect as a design feature and create a reverse two-story plan where living spaces occupied the garden level and private bedroom spaces were elevated at street level.”

At its streetside entrance, a wide, floating bridge-style walkway extends to the wood-slat front porch with an industrial hot-rolled steel pivot door.

Far Left: The upper-level foyer serves as the home’s street-level front entrance. The walls— painted white and naturally lit— form a natural art gallery.

Left: The study's black walls anchor the space from the lightfilled entry. The backlit built-in shelves glow through the front window at night. This flexible space can be converted into another bedroom.

Below: “When you step inside the front door, you’re greeted by a bright, open foyer, then you immediately descend next to a wall of windows into the open living space below,” Dan says, explaining the home’s out-ofthe-ordinary entry sequence.

The open foyer leads to three bedrooms, two full bathrooms and a study, while a pristine glass-panel railing presents the descending staircase. A geometric work of art, the dramatic open staircase is suspended on the interior side by custom-fabricated black steel rails—a striking contrast to the white oak treads and light-neutral walls.

Similarly styled, the living room’s doublesided linear fireplace is surrounded by blackhued cast stone arranged in a checkered pattern. Covered patio space on the outside provides a private and peaceful connection to nature in the midst of city life—a rare find in downtown Kansas City.

The rest of the garden level comprises a spacious kitchen and a living room with a minimalist dining area floating in the space between them. Expansive black cabinets, quartzite tops and backsplashes, and a cool and composed concrete floor give an urban edge to the space.

Beautifully unconventional and introspective, the award-winning Summit Ridge 2 is an achievement of harmonious and locally meaningful urban-modern design, making it a well-suited neighbor to the one-ofa-kind Westside home community.

Architect: SixTwentyOne, @sixtwentyone_

Developer/Contractor/Interior Designer: Edward Franklin Building Co., @edwardfranklinbuildingco

Resources: Page 244

Serene and secluded under the roof canopy, the covered wraparound patio is ideal for yearround entertainment and relaxation.

The facade is striking with a novel, modern design that pays homage to the traditional neighborhood's roots.

Above: The top level's primary bathroom. Below: A window wall at the back of the house mimics the wall at the front. The intimate setting of the top-floor primary bedroom offers privacy and treetop views.

Photo: Axolotl Cortex –Surface Bronze Black Florentine

Photo: Axolotl Cast Metal –Sentinel Copper

Words by Savannah Rieke Newson

Photos by Erin Curry

INlife and in science, consistency is key to maintaining momentum and making progress. For the “Godfather of Kansas City Builders,” Don Julian Builders, the motto became ‘Keep Moving Forward’ on their ambitious Bayside model home at Terrybrook Farms in Overland Park. Despite the COVID-19-related turbulence on the way to the finish line, Teri Stolz, Don Julian’s in-house designer, says, “The vision of the artistry being developed in this home inspired everyone to find a way to get it done.”

Teri—in collaboration with Jeff Julian and Architect Scott Bickford—paid special attention to how the more modernized style would be perceived by the local market.

“I believe Kansas City is like no other housing market in America,” she explains. “We demand custom

Above: An entertainment-ready extension of the kitchen, the wet bar boasts floating glass shelves and a swanky illuminated backsplash. The bar top is Cristallo quartzite—the same material used in the kitchen’s second island.

The main level delivers high livability and luxury with elements such as the two-tiered kitchen island and the unique steel-and-stone fireplace. The house—named the Bayside—won the 2022 Pick of the Parade Gold and Distinctive Plan and Design First Place awards.

standards. Therefore, this home was meant to give exploration to a fuller expression of contemporary without the sterility that some contemporary designs bring.”

Viewable from nearly every angle of the floor plan one of the home’s many crown jewels: a floating metal staircase with white oak treads, complemented by a linear chandelier with 30 hanging gold tubes. Behind them, a T-shaped assortment of windows is framed by 29-foottall chevron-patterned, white-oak-trimmed accent walls. Above, on the top landing, a bridge connects to the second-floor loft, which offers a unique vantage point and an additional lounge area.

Beyond the stairs lies the main living area, flooded with natural light. The two-story-

Ideal for food prep and minimizing meal-related messes, the tucked-away caterer’s kitchen shares the main kitchen’s style but in a more streamlined approach. Designer Teri Stolz loves this room’s metal-framed backsplash—custom-made by Scott Vick Masonry Co.—that secures the backlit white glass.

Black custom cabinetry balances the brightly lit kitchen opposite an enclosed lanai. A two-toned wood range hood warms the space above a white Perana Nuvolato quartzite countertop and backsplash. The main island features black granite—Titanium Extra Leather—accented by illuminated Cristallo quartzite in a round metal table housing.

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“[This] one-of-a-kind, ‘melting’ matte-white freestanding tub imported from Italy,” Teri describes, “is a central focal point that grabs your desire to relax in the beautiful shape.”

Below: The zen-like primary suite maintains the home’s contemporary-modern flow—albeit in a more subtle manner—by incorporating neutral tones, white oak floors and a ceiling treatment reminiscent of the staircase’s chevron wall design.

tall living area showcases a two-sided fireplace fl anked by natural stone and hot-rolled steel facing columns. It shares the wall with a pair of floating white oak mantels and an underlit hearth ideal for extra seating.

“My favorite features are the items that were completely built from scratch with careful designing, planning and execution,” Teri says.

In the kitchen, black accents and white oak continue to make a presence. The practical yet creative space has a standout feature—the “second island,” a 60-inch round metal table housing an illuminated quartzite countertop. The same underlit quartzite is installed on top of and behind the nearby wet bar.

A quiet neighbor to the kitchen area, the primary suite is a welcome retreat from the entertainmentready core of the home. The “melting” freestanding tub imported from Italy is a highlight, along with the Italian Neolith porcelain-wrapped shower and tub area walls. The on-theme bedroom ceiling treatment riffs off the entry’s design, creating a pattern of consistency that brings a finishing touch to the home.

Builder: Don Julian Builders, @donjulianbuilders

Interior Designer: Teri Stolz, @teristolz

Architect: Bickford & Company, @bickymon

Resources: Page 244

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When Amy Girard decided to remodel her kitchen, there was only one company she would consider—the one she worked for: Schloegel Design Remodel.

“Just because I worked for Schloegel didn’t guarantee I would use Schloegel,” says the company’s marketing director. “But for this type of project, I wouldn’t trust anyone else.”

The Girards—including Amy, her husband, Calvin, and their two kids—lived in their 1952-built Leawood home for years, knowing that a renovation was in their future.

“We love this home,” Amy says. “We intended to stay and make this our own.”

That love was tested when things in the kitchen started to fail. Dust sprinkled down when they opened cabinets. Their old Thermador range was on its way out. A major plumbing repair was required. And the space was just so small

“It all came to a head,” Amy says. “We were ready to remodel, and the kitchen was ready to remodel.”

Yet there were a couple of kinks to come: The COVID-19 pandemic, of course, was one, delaying the start of the project for more than a year; the other was that their designer at the beginning of the process went into preterm labor and then left her job to stay home with the baby. That’s when

Nina Schmidt, CKBR,

The existing kitchen ended where the vent hood is now—doubling the size of the space. The hood is perfectly matched to meet the crown molding and has a powerful 600 CFM exhaust fan under its slim profile to sweep away all smells. The design palette offers natural organic hues contrasting with crisp whites, seen in the island’s white quartz counter and the differing shades of white in the backsplash tile. Brass hardware and plumbing provide a vintage touch. The pendants from Olde Brick Lighting are new fixtures using old molds.

Green Goddess

A warm, vintage-inspired kitchen renovation keeps a Leawood family (and a company) close.

Words by Andrea Darr | Photos by Matthew Anderson

stepped in, joining up with Leslie Hatfield, Schloegel’s director of design and inhouse degreed architect.

Their first priority was an expansion, pushing out the exterior wall along the back of the house and combining it with the existing kitchen space—doubling the workable area.

That additional 240 square feet would be a game changer for the family’s lifestyle. It included space for a mudroom, which also redirected flow from the garage into a dedicated drop zone instead of directly into the kitchen, the way it used to. A large island with seating for six became the family’s favorite spot to eat and hang out together. And all that storage!

“Nina and Leslie did our home justice,” Amy says.

More than just an increased amount of storage space, the cabinets also include “fun things” like a pull-out trash bin, a builtin knife block, hidden drawers and pegged

Far Left: The quartz countertop has a tall splash and a picture ledge for a vintage feel. The Girards wanted a pocket door installed to close off any mess, so the wall had to be thickened and account for the plumbing for the Brizo fixture.

The rift-sawn white oak cabinets have an Almond stain, topped with Charcoal Soapstone quartz. “There’s white in the wood grain, which gives it an antique vibe,” Amy notes. This section differs from the others with a glass front and appliance garage. The vintage runner is from Etsy.

dividers for dishes. Nina specifically designed cabinet drawers so Amy could easily access her heavy Le Creuset cookware. And because Amy bakes often, Nina additionally devised a station with a mixer lifter—for a green mixer, of course. Green is Amy’s favorite color.

“My toes are painted green; my purse is green,” Amy says. “I can’t get enough of the color!”

They selected Sherwin-Williams’ Laurel Woods as the accent color for the island base and the bar area.

The color green is carried through into the adjoining family room, which underwent its own upgrades in sync with the kitchen. As a previous addition to the house in the 1970s, the floors were uneven, and the windows weren’t insulated—leaving the room bitterly cold and unusable in the winter.

After removing the walls to insulate and re-drywall, the couple caulked every seam themselves.

The bar serves up beverages and style, painted in Sherwin-Williams’ Laurel Woods, with a library light from Visual Comfort. A windmill print on the ledge honors Amy’s Dutch heritage. The couple opted to keep the laundry chute to the basement, for old-time's sake, hidden inside the base cabinet.

Scan here to watch the video interview.

“It's so cozy now,” Amy says. That’s also partly because of the new-to-them, vintage, buttery yellow sofa positioned under the new draft-free windows. Amy is an avid antique collector who can’t pass up a Brown Button estate sale. And she’s gotten everyone in the family to collect their favorite color of Depression glass; the collection is displayed on the original bookshelves in the dining room, alongside the mint-condition 1950s Thomasville table she scooped up from Facebook Marketplace—still in its original box.

“Amy has such an amazing sense of style,” Nina praises.

Amy and Calvin were also hands-on in the dining room, hanging the wallpaper.

They also like to get outside and garden, especially now that they have easy access through the three new sets of doors. A stamped concrete patio just outside the kitchen is ideal for hosting dinner al fresco—where they can also admire the dual peaks of the new roof line and the matching lanterns.

“Schloegel made the back of the house so much prettier than the front,” Amy muses.

Beauty and function are always a winning combination for any designer and homeowner. Fortunately, Amy keeping her company close worked out well for both parties.

“There’s not one thing I would change,” Amy says. “I feel I worked through every detail with Nina. Hands-down, I believe it’s beautiful, but it’s just so functional. Cooking is not only more fun, it’s easier and quicker. Everything is easy; even cleanup is easy.”

Resources: Page 244

Architect/Contractor/Interior Designer: Schloegel Design Remodel, @remodelagain

A kitchen renovation affects all adjoining spaces, so other rooms were elevated alongside the main project. The dining room coordinates in green with an umbel pattern wallpaper from Milton & King. The 1950s table and chairs were a eureka moment on one of Amy’s vintage treasure hunts.

Hooks and cabinets capture the family’s belongings when entering from the garage before stuff can clutter up the kitchen. A brass inlay between the kitchen’s wood floor and the mudroom’s tile accounts for the wood’s tendency to expand in different weather. Nina carried that design detail into the built-in bench, which is connected in three even sections.

The adjoining family room is filled with vintage artwork, furniture pieces and heirlooms, so the new kitchen incorporates that feel with its design selections.

COOKING IS A CELEBRATION OF DETAILS

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14105 Marshall Dr. Lenexa, KS 66215

Texture and Tone

Modern Organic meets Farmhouse in this Instagram-friendly bathroom.

With a brand new house comes a golden opportunity to create whatever you want. The possibilities are endless, but for designer Nicole Henson of KC Interior Co., less is definitely more in this minimalistic interpretation.

Builder Rhonda Holland of IHB Homes built a beautiful home for her client in the Northland’s Fountain Hills community. Nicole was brought in to help the client bring character into the blank spaces. For one thing, the client wanted a Venetian plaster fireplace surround rather than stucco—a product outside of IHB’s standard package. Nicole hired Italian Plasterworks to rework the mantle in the sleek yet timeless treatment.

Words by Andrea Darr | Photos by Josie Henderson

Zellige tile installed vertically makes the space feel tall. A black Schluter edge defines the bench seat.

That textural simplicity was the starting point for the client’s bathroom, as well.

“We wanted the feel to be ‘modern organic meets farmhouse,’ so it’s minimalistic,” Nicole says.

Her mood board was an Instagrammer’s dream—bright and airy, yet grounded.

The pervasive white-on-white-on-white trend is a bit warmer in Nicole’s version.

“This is more creamy warm tones—and I’m here for it,” says Nicole, who selected Simply White from Benjamin Moore for the walls. “Playing it safe feels sterile. My job is to make it feel cozy, like a warm hug.”

The black-framed windows helped in the effort, and Nicole balanced them in the room

with a trio of thin, black-framed mirrors and black fixtures at the vanity.

“I love black,” Nicole says. “A little bit of contrast is needed to make the magic happen in this space.”

Natural elements soften the contrast. White oak cabinets and brass hardware form a consistently pleasing pairing. The Taj Mahal quartzite countertops are honed, not polished. The Zellige tile in the shower is similar in nature, adding organic texture.

“It’s expensive, but we had to have the real deal for the feel of it,” Nicole adds.

In the shower, she again incorporated a touch of black—in the Schluter trim—forming a crisp, clean edge on the bench.

“I honestly believe it’s the little things in design,” Nicole says. “You might think, ‘Do I really need to do that?’ But watch; you really do.”

This well-defined space has become the client’s sanctuary.

“She wanted a staycation at home—a place to shut the door, pour a glass of champagne and relax,” Nicole says.

Done—fill the tub.

Interior Designer: KC Interior Co., @kcinteriorco Builder: IHB Homes, @ihbhomeskc

The vintage-European-style tub slopes at both ends. The natural woven hemp fixture—the same tone as the white oak—is from House of Nomad. “The room needed that moment in the middle,” Nicole says.

The room features mixed metals, using black and brass plumbing and lighting fixtures. “It helps bring in that warmth when using a super neutral look,” Nicole adds.

Historic Color

An Overland Park designer embraces Colonial Williamsburg style and finds it still a fit for modern life.

Words by Veronica Toney | Photos by Justin Salem Meyer

When Anne Golliher and her family moved to the Kansas City Metro seven years ago, she and her husband were looking for a home that felt welcoming and familiar. As the owner and principal designer of Storied Interiors, she also knew she wanted something different from the modern design styles that she regularly sees in home renovations.

Anne embraced the colors and feel of Colonial Williamsburg, some chosen by the previous homeowner. “I wanted to bring the Americana feel but didn’t want to go completely down that road and have flags and stars hanging everywhere,” she says.

In the dining room, Benjamin Moore’s Audubon Russet is a rusty red. “Red is conducive to eating and having gatherings,” Anne explains. The ironwork chandelier from Visual Comfort is a standout in this room thanks to its massive scale and nod to 1800s craftsmanship.

The two antique side dressers are different sizes, adding to the home’s antique style. “I was able to create balance in the room by using the two sconces. It tricks the eye into thinking there’s symmetry there,” Anne says.

When they found this 1980s-era Colonial home in Overland Park, the simplicity of it felt very familiar. “The wooden beams [in the kitchen] were a big selling point in purchasing the home,” Anne says. “I was born and raised in Alaska… and we lived in Minneapolis for 16 years. The space evokes the cabin feel, which feels like home.”

She used the home’s Colonial architecture as inspiration for the interior decor. Throughout, a mix of Colonial Williamsburg-inspired color palettes and antiques give the home a worn-in feel. “We didn’t want to do a gut job in the kitchen or other areas in the house, so I emphasized the good parts and deemphasized [the ugly parts] with design and antiques,” Anne says.

In the main living spaces, the bold colors are classic choices from the Colonial period. “My love of Colonial Williamsburg started when

I was a little girl,” Anne says. “I love history and different times and eras that people have experienced. Looking back, I see such beauty and creativity and want to have that in my own life and home.”

The living room walls are painted in Benjamin Moore’s Casabella, a warm peach color; meanwhile, Farrow & Ball’s Arsenic—a minty green—adds a surprising pop of color to the fireplace. “It’s so warm and inviting. The room glows at all hours of the day,” Anne says. “People are surprised that [the Arsenic color] leans historic. Mount Vernon has lots of extraordinary yellows and blues throughout it.”

In the kitchen, she kept the ’80s backsplash tile but added some wood trim in SherwinWilliams' Dutch Tile Blue. “The trim along the tile added that Williamsburg-inspired color into the oak-laden room,” she explains.

“The space evokes the cabin feel, which feels like home.”

- Anne Golliher, interior designer and homeowner

Benjamin Moore’s Goodwin Green gives the daughter’s bedroom a sophisticated, cozy feel—a pleasant surprise for a child’s room. The vintage suede crane artwork provides the space with feminine flair. The jacquard wool blanket on the bed features an old style of weaving.

Peel-and-stick wallpaper on the stair risers adds a modern touch to the space. “As much as I love the color [of the oak wood], the kitchen just needed some tone-on-tone breakup. The classic geometric element works well,” Anne says.

For the dining room walls, she chose Audubon Russet, a charming red terracotta, from Benjamin Moore. “I think dining rooms are one of the hardest rooms to design because there aren’t many elements,” Anne explains. “It’s hard to get creative with the functional side of it.” To add an antique flair to the space, she created an art installation with baskets she’s collected over the years—a mix of thrift and estate finds—that remind her of the basketweaving traditions of Alaska Natives.

Many of the antiques in each room are a mix of family heirlooms and antique finds. “We have quite a few that have been passed down from my husband’s side of the family,” Anne says. Her husband’s great-great-great uncle built the side table in the dining room. The red chest in the kitchen area came from her inlaws’ house.

However, the larger pieces tend to be items she scoured for at antique stores—mostly Woodson Antiques & Interiors in Raymore.

Far left: In the sitting area, William Morris wallpaper adds an organic feel to the space and draws the eye toward the garden outside the windows. The red chest—a piece inherited from Anne’s husband’s parents—serves double duty as a storage and table option.

A warm white on the kitchen walls lets the wood of the ceiling, trim and cabinets stand out. It also reflects the light from the windows to brighten the space. Antique decor and artwork are on display throughout the space, including an oil painting by Anton Pearson that hangs above the fireplace. “Hydrangeas were in my wedding bouquet, so I wanted to have that [painting] front and center in our home,” Anne says.

The game cabinet in the living room is an 1800s-era cabinet with initials carved into the side. The panettiere cabinet in the primary bedroom was originally intended to hold bread but now holds quilts and blankets. An Art Deco style spice cabinet replaced overhead cabinets in the kitchen.

“In my dream world, I’d have English antiques, but I can’t afford them,” Anne laughs.

“It was brought to my attention that I could get antiques from an area of the French-Belgium border [with a similar look], and I fell in love with this style and location of antiques.”

This combination of bold colors, natural elements and antique finds come together in each room to create a welcoming home. “I always embrace a lot of pieces from nature and am collecting things along the way as I explore the world,” Anne says. “It feels good in the space and feels like a nod to the past with a fresh perspective.”

Far from its day before running water existed in homes, the primary bath is a luxurious oasis awaiting the Yateses after spending their days working or playing outside.

Interior Designer: Storied Interiors, @storied_interiors

Anne covered the island base with a patterned wood-veneer wallpaper by Schumacher to hide the mismatched tone. “As a decorator, I’m always collecting wallpaper samples. When I saw this one from Italy, I thought it’d work well in the kitchen,” Anne says. “It helps to distinguish the island without painting it.”

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Jen and Justin Wood have established a pattern of buying and remodeling a home every five years at Lake Quivira with this—their third—home makeover. But they claim this time is their last.

When we featured their modern farmhouse in our Spring 2022 issue (see it on the cover in the bookcase below), they had already sold that house and were near closing on this one—a mid-1980s gem built in the mid-century-modern style. They hadn’t intended to fl ip their previous house, but when a neighborhood friend informed them of the possibility of this home— with its connection between the indoors and outdoors, maximal daylight and mix of glass, steel and natural materials—coming on the market, the couple quickly switched gears.

Eclectic Modernism

A refreshed ’80s-era MCM-style home at Lake Quivira melds minimalist tendencies with Hollywood glam.

Words

by Andrea Glinn | Photos by Josie Henderson

In the entry foyer, many of the key features remain, including the irregular slate flooring, floor-toceiling bookshelves and the steel guardrail. Jen complemented the existing design with new MCM Nelson pendant lights and a minimal custom wood console by Dimensional Innovations.

With the home’s horizontal lines, wraparound porches and copious amounts of glass (that allow a visitor to see straight through the home), its fundamental design was already compelling. The Woods bought it from the children of the original owner, and—while it was well-maintained and had great bones— the couple envisioned making the home better for entertaining and more livable by today’s standards.

The original home included a sunken living room, an open entryway stair, irregular slate flooring, vaulted main-level living spaces and ample floor-to-ceiling bookshelves. Plus, it touted nearly two dozen sliding doors. Though they reduced the number of sliding doors to a mere fourteen, all of the notable design features remain.

The dining room features a new wine storage display wall and updated lighting. The featured artwork by Glenna Adkins, Blu Dot dining chairs and custom dining table were featured in their previous home.

The kitchen might be the most drastically changed room in the house, with an open, modernized layout that features a center dining island, coffee bar and ample space for entertaining. One of Jen’s favorite details is the shallow, open cabinet for displaying objects above the fridge, which turns the corner into the adjacent sitting room.

Local architect Brandon Froelich of McHenry Shaffer Architecture spearheaded the architectural design of the renovation. His priority was to figure out how to completely open the kitchen to the living and dining rooms, which involved removing walls and a structural column as well as reinforcing the roof structure with a laminated beam. Brandon also enhanced the exterior living spaces by adding another level of outdoor terrace that features a custom, Corten-steel wood-burning stove (crafted by

Justin’s company, Dimensional Innovations) and a beautiful, board-formed concrete wall that mimics the horizontal lines of the home beyond. For the interior, Jen wasn’t too worried about being true to the mid-century design aesthetic, given that the home was built in the 1980s and also that she has more of an eclectic, loose decorating style than a rigid, purist approach. However, she did respect the original architecture and incorporated the MCM style into some of the furnishings. In the entry foyer,

Modernizing the living room hearth was one of the design challenges of the renovation. Although the framed gypsum-board solution appears simple, Jen and Justin admit that it took a lot of coordination with the architect to detail and express elegantly.

The powder room illustrates Jen’s preference for glam, with polished stone slabs and gilded-gold floral wallpaper.

for example, Jen added a cluster of period-true Nelson bubble pendants and kept the floor-toceiling built-in bookshelves intact.

On the other hand, the living and sitting rooms have a distinct farmhouse feel, exemplified by the natural cleft limestone hearth and shiplap wall boards. And most of the rest of the house— namely the kitchen, dining room, primary bedroom, powder room and office—exudes a notably glamorous vibe, with the dramatic use of color, heavily figured and polished stone slabs, floor-to-ceiling velvet drapes, and gold light fixtures and hardware throughout. In other words, Jen took liberties to make the space her own and had fun doing it.

The kitchen—which was previously a bit sad, drab and sparse—became the heart of the home when Jen opened it up to the surrounding spaces and designed it to meet her family’s specific needs. She replaced some of the perimeter casework with a central island, where the whole family can sit and play a game or share a meal. She also added a wet bar and coffee station

Scan here to see how the Woods styled their previous home using many of these same items!

The primary bedroom marries mid-century style with Jen’s inclination toward glam. While the Eames MCM classic lounge chair and machinedwood wall panels could be serious enough for a corporate conference room, the gildedgold accents and velvet drapery add a bit of drama and mood to the space.

The primary bath was enlarged by carving space out of the oversized primary bedroom and stands out with its framed forest view and steam shower.

that features a black granite backsplash and countertop, contrasting the rest of the kitchen’s light quartzite surfaces and making it feel like a separate space within the space.

But often, it is the small moments that bring us joy, and one of Jen’s favorite design elements in the kitchen is the open shelf running the length of the refrigerator wall and around the corner into the adjacent sitting room. The objects on display are her way of adding a personal layer to the home and interest to the space.

Organic decor juxtaposes the vintage, industrial vibe of the yellow counter stools, as well as the high-contrast stone and wood cabinets and gold-accented cabinet hardware and light fixtures—all reinforcing the eclectic design language used consistently throughout the house.

Another highlight of the remodel—the primary suite—involved downsizing the bedroom to enlarge the bathroom and walk-in closet to enhance functionality. Aesthetically, both rooms are equal parts minimalist modern and Hollywood drama. In the bedroom, a set of

Designer: Jen Wood Interiors, @jenwoodinteriors

Architect: McHenry Shaffer Architecture, @mchenryshafferarchitecture

Contractor: Schmitt Remodeling

Resources: Page 244

The office includes the only furnishing purchased from the previous homeowner—a vintage Oriental rug. While the origin of the rug is unknown, its rich color inspired the palette of the room. It also reminds Jen of the history of the house and its evolution.

repeating, oak acoustic wall panels and an Eames lounge chair represent the machined aspect of the modern age. Meanwhile, the fulllength velvet drapery, gilded-gold accents and emerald jewel-toned color palette suggest a more decadent side of contemporary life.

The gold-adorned ensuite features an ample, frameless-glass steam shower, porcelain fauxmarble flooring and custom wood cabinets with reveals cut into the face to mimic slat panels. The organization of the space is straightforward and anchored by a view into the woods, while the decor trends more maximalist and femme, creating a place where minimalist modern mixes with opulence and ease.

With masterful precision, Jen has created a home that is welcoming and warm, modern without being cold, and luxurious without being ostentatious. And, most importantly, she has designed a home that accommodates the lifestyle of her young, social, ever-busy family and looks good, too.

The horizontal lines of the home and the connection to the outdoors are two of the architectural characteristics that made the Woods fall for this home. Brandon Froelich at McHenry Shaffer Architecture reinforced these two elements by adding an outdoor terrace with board-formed concrete retaining walls that emphasize the existing architecture and create additional living spaces to draw people outdoors.

The custom wood-burning fire pit was crafted by Justin’s company—Dimensional Innovations—and is fabricated of Corten steel and board-formed concrete that match the surrounding retaining walls.

The bourbon lounge, just off the dining room, is fronted by a pair of greenvelvet swivel chairs. Lighted cabinets featuring banker wire glow next to the Italian porcelain tile backsplash. The countertops are honed black granite.

White

“Bright and airy” meets “moody and shiny” in a new build that grounds itself in duality.

Words by Cynthia Billhartz Gregorian | Photos by Laurie Kilgore

The ink had barely dried on the contract for Willis Custom Homes to build near the sixth hole of the Loch Lloyd golf course when interior designer Marci Gutheil’s phone rang. It was the couple who had just signed that contract. They wanted her to help them make their future home light, airy and timeless for entertaining.

They knew that getting Marci's input early—before breaking ground—was key to tweaking the floor plan and meeting their stylistic vision through their choices in flooring, cabinetry, paint colors, wall coverings and lighting.

The homeowner and Marci gave a tour of the living and entertaining areas of the nowcompleted four-bedroom, four-bath, reverselevel home one afternoon.

“I wanted something clean, and I love black and white with pops of color,” the

A large picture window above the cabinets offers views into the sunroom. The original floor plans called for this wall to have glass doors instead.

Scale is important to designer Marci Gutheil, so she chose large, statement lighting to fill the airy kitchen and dining space. The triple-tier, gold-leaf iron chandelier over the dining table is the Prescott by Arteriors. It coordinates with the pair of gold-lined dome pendants over the island.

homeowner says. “But I also wanted ‘cozy and comfortable.’ A lot of Patrick Willis’ homes are very contemporary, very modern, and Marci and I worked together just to make it more timeless.”

Marci, who was working with ML Designs at the time but has since spun off into Luna Interiors, wanted to go big with certain details and accessories. After all, she jokes, she is from Texas (where bigger is always better). The homeowner, who felt an instant connection with Marci, was fully on board and ready to follow the designer’s lead.

The more extensive design modifications began at the home’s front entrance.

Left: The Taylor King tightback sofa in the living room is upholstered in a performance tweed fabric. Wood, wicker and seagrass lend the more informal sunroom, in the background, a tropical, earthy vibe.

Below: Black and white elements continue through all rooms in the home, bridging the design gap between the formal and informal.

The original plans called for a pair of standard-sized doors with a transom window. Instead, they opted for grand, 10-foot-tall arched alder wood doors, lending the space an added layer of substance and elegance.

Inside the foyer, what would otherwise be large blank walls are now trimmed with picture molding, while an iron stair railing runs to the lower level. It features a graphic pattern that plays well with a large, graphic blackand-ivory rug adorning the hardwood floor.

A charcoal-gray Hooker console table along one wall exhibits a “medieval meets modern” style. It’s topped by a pair of large white table lamps by Gabby, arched mirrors from Amazon, branches of greenery in a large white vessel and a chunky ornamental wooden chain. A pair of round ottomans from Arteriors, covered in a gray sculpted velvet tucked beneath the console, can be rolled into the main living space to help accommodate large parties.

Marci sourced many of the home’s luxury furnishings at trade showroom Designer’s Library in Overland Park but explains that she’s a believer in high-low mixes—hence those Amazon mirrors.

Throughout the home, touches of gold and a host of natural materials complement the black-and-white color scheme and light oak plank floors.

The main living space is an open concept, comprising a kitchen, dining area and formal living room featuring light neutral tones, luxury finishes and big, bold light fixtures. The only exception to the airy palette is a “bourbon lounge” tucked into an alcove off the dining area.

It’s a moody cocoon of floor-to-ceiling cabinets painted in Benjamin Moore’s inky Tricorn Black and punctuated by a backsplash of large, soft mottled gold tiles that were delayed for months by a workers’ strike in Italy. Banker wire is affixed to the fronts of

The panda granite is carried over to the waterfall top on the lower-level recreation room's bar-height table. Custom brass Palmer shelves float in front of vertically installed black subway tile on the bar's backsplash and wine room.

The graphic, leather-finished panda granite on the floating vanity offers a striking contrast to the wood-look porcelain tile in the home's lower-level bathroom.

the upper cabinets, allowing lit displays of glass and crystal drinkware to sparkle. Conversely, the lower cabinets conceal a refrigerator and dishwasher.

A bar with stools in front of the alcove—a feature on the original floor plans—was eliminated. Instead, Marci added a pair of green velvet swivel armchairs facing the lounge.

The dining area features a round table beneath an Arteriors triple-tier Prescott chandelier of gold-leaf iron. This luxe fixture complements the gleaming gold interiors of the sizeable white dome-shaded pendants above the kitchen island.

Marci wanted to add personalized art to the dining area as well, so she asked the homeowner to name her favorite place or thing. The result?

A large, framed color photo of The Arch of Cabo San Lucas hanging above a black floating buffet cabinet underlit by LEDs and topped with a chunk of graphic black-and-white marble. The image is printed on metallic paper, giving the 2-D water a realistic shimmer.

“Without having a ton of wall space in this area, we knew that this was going to have to be eyecatching,” Marci notes.

The vast kitchen island is constructed of white oak cabinets and a Silestone Miami White waterfall countertop that can withstand the rigors of the homeowners’ love for entertaining and cooking. A pull-out spice cabinet and built-in wood cutting board next to the stove demonstrate the kitchen’s high level of functionality—a musthave when cooking regularly for family and friends.

Above, top to bottom: The light, airy finishes and brass hardware continue into the primary bathroom.

A teak coffee table adds rustic contrast to the living room's formal vibe.

The polished brass hardware on the powder bath vanity is from Modern Matter.

Ottomans tucked under the entry table provide extra seating in a pinch.

The formal chairs in the living room are by Taylor King.

The remaining kitchen cabinets are white and paired with a countertop and backsplash of thickly veined black-and-white marble. The space is rounded out by Thermador appliances, including a cabinet-concealed refrigerator freezer.

An adjacent cabinet- and counter-lined room serves as a convenient butler’s pantry. It even has a door to hide clutter.

Overall, one of the more eye-catching parts of the kitchen is the wall of lower cabinets topped by a large window that overlooks a sunroom. The original house plans called for the wall to feature a sliding glass door, but there’s already a sliding glass door around the corner.

The formal living room is outfitted with white upholstered furnishings—all in performance fabrics. With its generous use of black-and-white textiles and natural materials, the adjacent sunroom has a bit of a safari vibe, Marci notes. She and the homeowners changed the space from a screened-in porch with a stone fireplace to a walled-in sunroom surrounded by windows and a sleek stucco fireplace. The window coverings, shades on a multi-tier ceiling light, baskets and barstools are made of seagrass and rattan.

The cohesive design scheme continues on the lower level, which features a family room with a striking,

Interior Designer: Luna Interiors, @lunainteriorstyle

Builder: Willis Custom Homes, @williscustomhomeskc

Resources: Page 244

counter-height table that seats six and is outfitted with a waterfall top of black-and-white marble.

“I didn’t want a traditional bar because my boys like to have friends over to play cards, so they can sit on both sides and play,” the homeowner says.

The table fronts another bar with a gleaming black tile backsplash and solid brass-and-glass Palmer shelves laden with liquor bottles. A nearby, glass-doored wine display lights up to show off the homeowners’ wine collection.

The homeowner's favorite bathroom in the house is just off the family room. It features an underlit, black floating vanity made of black-and-white panda marble with a waterfall front. The bathroom and walk-in shower walls are sheathed in a porcelain tile molded and colored to resemble raw beadboard. The homeowner loves the interplay of contrasting patterns and how it still manages to reference the style of the rest of the home. She’s amazed and satisfied with the boldness and cohesiveness of the project.

“She and I really tried to keep the warmth of the house but then put these modern touches in,” Marci says. “That's something that we were very mindful of while we were designing the house.”

A daybed separates the dining area from the living room and provides seating for both spaces while entertaining.

The original floor plans called for a bar separating the lounge from the dining area, but Marci and the homeowner changed it to save space and get a direct sightline into the moody, clubby space.

ELEVATED ENTERTAINMENT

A hundred-year-old brick Colonial home in St. Joseph, Missouri, looks like business in the front, but it’s a party in the back.

Homeowners Karri and Chris Habiger knew that making their steeply sloped backyard functional for entertaining wouldn’t be a simple endeavor. But Lorax Design Group, with the help of designer Amy Thurston and more than 16 subcontractors, was up to the challenge.

The Habigers purchased their 1911 St. Joseph home in 2013 because they loved its history and location.

“We were really taken by the property,” Chris says. “It sits on five acres. There are large trees. It’s in the middle of town, so you don’t usually find a piece of property like this.”

Words by Cynthia Billhartz Gregorian | Photos by Matt Kocourek

The pavilion anchors one end of the main terrace. Water from an infinity spa glides over the edge first into an upper pool then into a lower pool. Inset lighting on the stairs glows at night and makes a safe descent down the three terrace levels. Precast planter boxes soften the hardscape with bountiful greenery and color.

The couple was determined to properly restore and redesign the property, which meant first repairing and replacing boring things like sewer and water lines. Finally, five years ago, they decided to turn their attention to that sharply slanted terrain behind their home.

Kurt Kraisinger, the owner of Lorax, saw a bevy of design possibilities for it. He and his team drew up plans then set to work terracing mounds of earth, installing yards of precast Atelier Vals stone tiles and constructing—on opposite ends of the multi-tiered pool area—a two-bedroom pool house and outdoor pavilion. Today, the once nearly useless backyard is a singular, luxurious oasis for year-round use.

Layers and levels reveal themselves when entering the backyard from the side of the house. First, on the top terrace, there’s a square, blue-glass mosaic-tiled spa pool with a built-in bench. The spa’s warm water flows over into the main lagoon: a large, rectangular infinity-edge pool featuring a diving platform on one end and

A sunken fire pit in front of the pavilion overlooks the upper and lower pools, as well as the pool house at the other end.

Below: Casual seating outside the pool house extended the living space for the family while the main house was being renovated.

Underwater seating at a swim-up bar is a popular feature in the pool. The precast stonework around the pool is from Swiss Alps studio, Atelier Vals.

underwater barstools on the other. A basketball hoop supports active play on this level, while the infinity edge spills over into a basin below that Kurt suggested be expanded into a secondary pool. That’s where the adults like to sit and sip cocktails while the kids dive and shoot hoops above, Karri says.

The lower terrace’s turf-covered pool deck features lounge chairs and umbrellas from RH. A few feet away, and down on another terrace, is the pickleball court.

For her part, Amy took a cue from the pool walls’ dark-gray porcelain tile—which gives the water a black hue—and emphasized a black-and-white palette atop natural-material furnishing selections.

Additionally, her goal was to help the Habigers make ultra-refined material decisions so the grand space wouldn’t feel ‘loud.’ For instance, as Amy points out, she steered the couple toward using stone spheres—instead of shiny glass—for the material in the sunken fire pit area.

The custom dining table from Atelier Vals has a built-in trough for cooling beverages and snacks. "Everything about this project is custom," Amy notes.

The pavilion has distinct areas for cooking, dining and relaxing by a fire while watching a sports game on TV. The seating and chandelier are from RH's Mesa and Camino collections, respectively.

“Glass in the fire pit would have been beautiful, but it can also read a little bit like ‘Vegas,’” she explains. “We did the spheres just to calm it down, give it texture and also give it height and scale. So, even when there’s no fire burning, it still looks like something substantial.”

The pool house at one end of the main pool, located where a carriage house once sat, served as the family’s home while the main house was undergoing renovations. The initial pool house plans were brought to Kurt, who tweaked the design by modifying the roof lines and exterior materials to better match those on the main house.

“You’re looking at all the different design basics—proportion, scale, rhythm, harmony— these are the types of things that we look at as landscape architects,” Kurt says.

With a full kitchen, built-in seating area and bathroom on the main level, it’s a divine weekend

A louvered metal roof attaches to the vaulted cedar roof of the pavilion. The louvers open to allow heat to rise away from the outdoor kitchen, which includes Hestan appliances and a Forno Bravo pizza oven. A bed of horsetail reed makes a striking definition between the spaces.

The lower terrace has low-maintenance turf for a soft step. Lounge chairs and umbrellas from RH make a striking contrast against the treed backdrop.

Architect: WSKF Architects, wskfarch.com

Interior Designer: Amy Thurston Interiors, @amytkc

Contractor: Scott Gann Construction, @scottgannconstruction

Landscape Architect/Pool Designer: Lorax Design Group, @loraxdesigngroup

Landscape Contractor: Embassy Landscape Group, @embassylandscapegroupinc

Resources: Page 244

A luxury kitchen in the pool house connects to the outdoors through a sliding glass door. "Every single part of that kitchen has a purpose," Amy says. "We kept it very light and very clean."

space. However, the family of five humans and two dogs holed up there for nearly two years, utilizing the walk-out lower-level living space, second bathroom, bunk room and primary en suite—rather comfortably.

Amy imbued the pool house with a sense of luxurious timelessness, using her signatures of bold color and art that suits the young family.

A sliding glass door under a louvered pavilion roof allows natural light to flood the main floor, comprising the kitchen and sunny seating nook. A large island base—painted soft blue and topped with a marble countertop— fits well with the traditional-modern mix the owners wanted. Hestan appliances round out the high-end feel.

In the downstairs bunk room, each bed has a built-in shelf, light, charging station and curtain, granting the three kids added privacy while temporarily sharing the room. “And it’ll be fun for guests,” Amy adds.

Back outside, across the terrace, a large pavilion counterbalances the pool house—a necessary effect in good design, Kurt says.

"When you look at a large outdoor environment like this, you don’t want to build a heavy structure on one end and then have the other end that’s bookending it become too light because it’s off balance,” he explains. “So what we tried to accomplish was building a good bookend to fl ank the other end of the pool to harmonize the space.”

There are three distinct zones under the pavilion’s cover. A sofa and chairs facing the large stone fireplace—and the sunken fire pit seating area just behind it—offer cozy places to watch a football game on TV on a brisk fall day. A large dining table under a chandelier features a central channel ice basin for cooling drinks. And the fullscale outdoor kitchen is complete with a pizza oven, a smoker, a grill and a bevy of other stateof-the-art Hestan appliances. The Habigers’ career in food service and their love of outdoor cooking served as inspiration for the space.

The backyard has a total of seven seating areas, perfect for entertaining large crowds— really large crowds—which the Habigers are eager to do now that the main house is ready to move in.

“If you were to put 50 people back here, it wouldn't look like it,” Kurt says. “People disperse to different locations, and you could add another 50 people.”

A set of four built-ins in the lower-level bunk room housed the three Habiger children for two years while the house was under construction, and it will be a great space for sleepovers in the future. Curtains make each space feel private, and each bunk has its own shelf and light.

The reverse-level design of the pool house features a light, airy lower-level living room, with access to a hanging bed and the grassy backyard. Sourcing art was a big part of Amy's job, and she had fun finding colorful and engaging pieces.

A Home to Grow Into

A traditional home with modern flair is staged to patina gracefully for a young Prairie Village family.

Words by Veronica Toney | Photos by Nate Sheets

“We wanted stone and copper as part of the exterior aesthetic of the home, both for [their] beauty and minimal maintenance,” the homeowners say.

here are many factors that turn a new home into a forever home. It could be the location, the number of bathrooms or the size of the kitchen. But for many homeowners, the difference between a starter home and a forever home comes down to whether they can see their children living there from preschool to adulthood.

That’s the exact challenge the owners of this Prairie Village home gave their architect, contractors and designer when building this home from the ground up. “We wanted to create a home that we could enjoy living in now, as well as grow into as a family and not have to paint or tile every few years as our children and family grow,” the homeowners explain.

To help them achieve this goal, they hired Wendlandt & Stallbaumer Architects and Kara Kersten Design. “A whole-home project is super exciting but can be overwhelming with all the decisions you have to make at one time,” says

The marble fireplace surround in the formal living room gives the space the traditional design style found in many of the homeowners' inspiration photos. The black marble creates a more dramatic look than the white marble tile used in other spaces throughout the home.

“Marble is classic to the traditional style of the home and adds a wow factor to the design. Its beauty is to age and patina over time,” Kara says.

Oak hardwood floors run throughout the main level. Oak is the most traditional wood species used for flooring in the Midwest. The medium brown stain hides dirt and helps maintain the home’s classic design. In the foyer, the hardwood planks are laid in a herringbone design to add interest to the space without requiring a different design element.

The luxe green cabinets in the butler-y are the main focal point in the space and can be seen from the dining room and foyer. The walnut wood and white cabinets are meant to look like an accent piece of furniture. Ornate knobs add to the furniture-like appearance. This cabinetry is where the homeowners display entertaining essentials and heirlooms.

Kara, owner and principal designer. “They really wanted personalized spaces for all their kids to grow in. Plus space to entertain friends and family and lots of outdoor space.”

The homeowners also wanted the home to fit their traditional style but with a modern fl air. Kara met this challenge with a mix of durable materials and unexpected colors. “We were very practical but tried to make decisions that were classic but have longevity,” she says.

Many of the homeowners’ inspiration images featured marble, so she incorporated the material into many areas of the home. Marble tiles in the basement steam shower, upstairs bathrooms, kitchen and even the fireplace surrounds help create that classic look of traditional homes.

Above: The marble countertops and backsplash add traditional glamour to the space; a deep-penetrating sealant helps protect it from wear and tear. Above the range, paint gives the hood a coppery look. “Originally, it was planned to be white, but as construction got going and pieces started coming in, [the homeowners] wanted more design elements,” Kara says.

Right: The blue stone tiles carry through from the exterior patio to the floor in the mudroom. This connects the interior to the exterior and also requires little maintenance in these high-traffic spots.

The dual vanity in the primary bathroom looks just like fine furniture. The homeowners preferred the classic style of long dainty drawers with two knobs. Kara added hardware to give the appearance of four drawers; however, the bottom two are actually one big, deep drawer. The vanity mirrors are set within the woodwork for a clean design.

“Marble is classic to the traditional style of the home and adds a wow factor to the design,” Kara says. “Its beauty is to age and patina over time.”

Color adds modern fl air to the home’s traditional design elements and gives each space its own personality.

“All the colors we chose in the home look like extravagant neutrals,” Kara says. “Instead of a bold navy, there’s some gray in it. In the green, there’s some gray in it. It helps give everything more interest, so it’s not just white or stained cabinets everywhere.”

These fresh color choices are very prominent in the main-level “butler-y,” which is a clever amalgamation of a butler’s pantry and a China cabinet. This unique room is visible from the dining room and the foyer. Here, the green cabinetry establishes a bold, modernistic focal point, complemented by the aged and traditional look of the soapstone countertops and walnut cabinets.

Far left: The spa-like primary shower is all marble tile. It features dual shower heads on the sides, a rain shower head above and a steam shower head. The half walls hide storage nooks.

Left: The undermount tub provides the family with extra space to sit with the kids during bathtime or set a glass down while soaking in the tub.

A staircase goes from the primary bedroom straight to the home office. This separate entrance enhances the work-from-home experience by providing a physical boundary between home and office life.

The living room is a welcoming space where the kids can play, and the family can spend time together. The fireplace stone is the same as the exterior of the house. The stained wood ceiling and the sloped roof scale down the space to create more intimacy. Large windows along each wall keep it light and airy and offer views of the covered patio and pool. The large-scale chandelier is a modern take on a traditional design element. Its clean lines disguise how massive the light fixture is, while the candelabra bulbs maintain its classic feel.

“The beautiful butler-y off the dining room pushed us out of our comfort zone,” say the homeowners. “We get compliments every time someone comes into the house.”

“You don’t notice that the colors change from room to room, but it still works as a whole family,” Kara says. “I repeated colors in different rooms and spaces to tie it together.” The color palette from the main level shows up again on each level of the house. This is really on display in the children’s bedrooms.

Even though their three kids are under the age of seven, the homeowners knew they didn’t want these bedrooms to feel juvenile. “We wanted them to all be adult kids’ rooms,” they say. “Down the road, when we have three college-age kids, they’ll have spaces that they can come home [to] and be home in.”

“All the colors we chose in the home look like extravagant neutrals. Instead of a bold navy, there’s some gray in it. In the green, there’s some gray in it. It helps give everything more interest.”

- Kara Kersten, interior designer

The basement kitchenette needed to be practical for kids and guests, so the cabinet doors have an antique-mirror glass that conveniently hides smudges. Both counters are quartz, but the island has a thicker mitered edge.

The two-level steam shower in the basement is the homeowners’ favorite spot in the house. They use it almost daily to relax after a workout or a pool day. Large-format porcelain tiles meet the slanted ceiling, which helps condensation run down the walls instead of dripping on them.

They salvaged bricks from the house that originally sat on the lot and used them to create the exterior brickwork for the home. The architect suggested recycling the material because the bricks were well-made and fit with the homeowner’s request for a low-maintenance exterior.

Interior Designer: Kara Kersten Design, @karakerstendesign

Architect: Wendlandt & Stallbaumer Architects, @wendlandtstallbaumerarchitects

Contractor: Ambassador Homes, theambassadorcompanies.com

Resources: Page 244

Each bedroom and connected bathroom features paint colors, wallpaper, light fixtures and tile that relate to the home’s color palette yet still allow each room to develop a unique aesthetic.

In the basement, they debated whether to finish it now or later. “They knew they wanted to us to use it as a space to entertain and gave me more creative freedom,” Kara says.

She designed the space to grow with the family and picked more durable materials, such as quartz countertops and carpet, for the area. The home office, kitchenette and steam shower are the standouts of the space. Right now, this floor is the adults’ favorite room in the house, but in a few years, the homeowners expect it to become their future teenagers’ favorite hangout spot—which is by design.

The all-season room connects to the primary bedroom through a set of French doors. It has a fireplace and excellent views of the pool.

Eurostar

A Hallbrook home shines bright with a French-inspired kitchen, rich layers and several "jewel box" moments.

Words by Jessica Bahr | Photos by Nate Sheets

All design choices flow from the kitchen, which served as the anchor for the whole-home renovation. Conceived from an idea that the design team calls their "wildcard," the generous walnut and burl-inlay island pairs easily with the secondary island. It’s topped in Alba Tiara marble and serves as the family’s central dining spot. Rejuvenation’s Hood Classic pendants unify the two spaces.

The dining room is saturated with color from the wall mural to the rich blue trim and ceiling color (Still Water by Sherwin-Williams). A dining table custom-made of antique wood is illuminated by a Bonnington crystal round chandelier.

Most renovations update homes. Very few actually change a home’s DNA. In the case of this 1990s Colonial, evolution seems to have happened at a cellular level. From the boring and expected to the enduring and inspired, a Eurostar is born.

Maybe this transformation is a sign of its time: a project undertaken at the height of COVID-19 when lockdown compelled creativity. Or perhaps it’s the pairing of an intrepid homeowner with the dynamic design duo behind Kobel + Co: Elizabeth Bennett and Mallory Robins. Whatever the catalyst, the conditions were just right.

“I think we just saw a potential to glow it up,” Mallory says. “They’re a young family; they’re fun and playful. They like this sort of old European feel but also very much want a livable house that’s welcoming and inviting to their friends, their kids’ friends. The client trusted our ability to interpret her personal aesthetic and run with it. She let us try things that were out of the box and that she hadn’t seen before.”

The homeowner saw the Waterstone Gantry faucet while watching a home tour for Taylor Swift and made a note for her own future renovation.

The professional-grade kitchen is complete with a built-in coldstorage wall, as well as this hidden pantry featuring substantial pulls by Waterstone.

A peek into the dining room reveals a custom wallpaper mural. The family chose about a dozen animals with significant meaning to them to be tucked among the rich botanical print.

With its bright, modern take on traditional European kitchens, this space is light-years from its “before” photos. Yes, that's a real chicken on the countertop!

Far left: The black-green color of this secondary living space seems to shift with the light and strike the appropriate mood for the family as it evolves from daytime home office to family game night to after-hours cocktails.

Left: The powder room in glossy Framboise (Sherwin-Williams) is now everything the homeowner hoped for as a “jewel-box moment.” The homeowner chose the Latin phrase, which roughly translates as “caught red-handed.”

The home’s aesthetic reflects a consistency among other Kobel + Co projects. It’s collected and layered. It plays with genre, mixing and matching traditional elements with modern touches. But this particular homeowner’s vision is what distinguishes it from other projects.

“This client knew her personal aesthetic, less to do with maker or brands or any kind of affiliation, just more that she knew how she wanted her house to feel,” Elizabeth explains. “She knew she did not want her whole house to feel whitewashed, like with Belgian linen and lots of neutrals. She wanted jewel tones and rich color.”

Familiar with their client’s vision and working style, Elizabeth and Mallory knew this project would be an exciting one. They’d previously worked with the homeowner on a “massive” Christmas install, as they did for many homes in Hallbrook in the early days of their business. The three eventually formed a friendship.

The homeowner had a record player that she really wanted to incorporate into the family room. A hidden shelf gives the best of both worlds: a space for records and games to be easily accessible but also hidden and out of sight. A print by Natalie Obradovich, framed in warm brass, keeps the secret.

The black-and-white floor, staircase and high ceilings were existing elements of the house, "but it wasn’t as interesting as it could be,” Mallory explains. “We added the millwork and a fresh coat of paint and freshened the staircase.” Eric Stefanski's Alice in Wonderland tribute makes a bold welcome.

When it was time for a large-scale renovation, the homeowner knew exactly who to call for design vision. Nearly every room in the house was to be transformed, plus exterior projects, including a pool, new finish and paint on the house and landscape lighting.

To begin, Gerald Janssen of ESC Architects reimagined the home’s tired spaces. Its overall layout is still very much the same as the original. For the most part, the homeowner wasn’t interested in changing the footprint, and its solid stature didn’t demand it.

Bringing those plans to life, contractor Brett Standard of RM Standard Construction was an invaluable partner to the design team as they worked together to troubleshoot some of the more challenging spaces. The kitchen, in particular, provided the biggest opportunity for change.

As with many large homes of this locale and era, the original kitchen had diminutive proportions, a low ceiling and poor lighting. So it was here that Elizabeth and Mallory “dropped anchor,” as they say, to focus on getting the kitchen right and allow other decisions to flow from there.

Mirrored doors in the closet now make the most of the crystal chandelier lighting, and along with the rich hues of Rosepine (Benjamin Moore) and a chocolate-brown leather ottoman, the space now feels like an upscale boutique.

Natural light energizes the large walk-in shower.

Far right: Fine cabinetry has a furniture-quality look.

The light-filled serenity of the primary bath is an example of the designers’ imaginations at work. Early in the design process, they were trying to figure out how to make this space work. There was a large closet with natural light, a large bathroom with no light and an awkward walk-through between them. “We finally suggested to the client and the contractor: ‘Can we just switch them?’” Elizabeth says. Mallory adds: “In swapping, we got bucketfuls of natural light in this bathroom space, and it honestly revolutionized that whole scene.”

Nearly every child dreams of the perfect bunk-bed situation—and this boy’s room is it. Taking full advantage of the tallest ceilings in the house, the bunks are custommade and tied to a built-in desk beside the bookshelf.

The partners specify a foundational room, element or mood for nearly every project. The anchor can differ client-to-client, but Elizabeth and Mallory typically like to start in the kitchen, which informs so many decisions about a client’s budget, preferred palette and lifestyle. And in this kitchen, sights were set around one element in particular: the premium black Lacanche range.

On the homeowner’s dream list from day one, the range from the storied French company puts the “Euro” in this aptly named home. Its high-performance quality—coupled

with the timeless beauty of clean lines and mixed-metal design—is as at home in this Hallbrook residence as it would be in an 18thcentury Parisian château. The kitchen design took shape around the stately range, with the custom minimalist hood, creamy white walls and impressive double island as the supporting ensemble.

With the well-appointed kitchen serving as the steadying anchor, every other room of the house could take on an uninhibited personality of its own. Where color is used, it’s saturated. Textiles are rich and invitingly

“Bellewood” by Rebel Walls wraps the room in a treehouse feel, while the lightning bolt marque light strikes a quirky balance to the wallpaper and a subtle nod to the Harry Potter-loving family.

Tucked away in a reading nook of his very own, the homeowners’ oldest son enjoys the hanging bubble chair from RH. The homeowner chose to dedicate this upper-level alcove to a children’s library, adding built-in bookcases with a study desk on the opposite end.

tactile. And while an elevated lifestyle is evident throughout, playful touches are skillfully layered in each room, keeping the overall tone relaxed.

From the Eric Stefanski Touch Me oil painting in the entry to the hidden bookshelf in the hearth room to custom-made bunks in a son’s bedroom, intentionally unique choices are everywhere.

“We wanted every space to feel welcoming, and not precious, but really tailored and welldesigned,” Elizabeth says. “But we don’t ever want to sit in a box of one particular aesthetic… I think big ideas are also the ones that pay off the most.”

Once an awkward 1990s throwback, this home’s metamorphosis from bland to bright is complete. Why settle for “updated” when you have the chance to shine?

Interior Designer: Kobel + Co, @kobelandco

Architect: ESC Architects, @escarchitects

Contractor: RM Standard Construction, @rmstandardconstruction

Resources: Page 244

A handsome tableau in the second bedroom holds space for both childhood play and more mature pursuits to come. The curved edge and rivets on the bed from CB2 tie in with the subtle nautical feel of the painting above.

This bedroom’s bathroom carries the studious theme with its “Bibliotheque” wallcovering by Brunschwig & Fils. The crest mirror and swing-arm sconce round out the "Ivy League" feel.

CLIENT-REQUESTED COURTYARD

Interior Designer: Design Spout Architect of Record:

Bickford & Co. Design Architect: Huff t Contractor: RM

Standard Construction Art Consulting: Toma Wolff of Byron

Cohen Gallery Cabinets: Bootlace Design & Build Dining

Table: Matt Castilleja Dining Chairs: Design Within Reach

Outdoor Chairs: Loll Designs Coff ee Table: Blu Dot Planters:

Rejuvenation; Golden & Pine Candlesticks: CB2 Flooring:

Acme Floor Company Staircase and Shower Glass: Westport

Glass & Mirror Pulls: Tom Kundig’s 12th Avenue Iron Tile:

Virginia Tile Kitchen Counter Stools: Kristalia

WESTSIDE CONTEXT

Architect: SixTwentyOne Developer/Contractor/Interior

Designer: Edward Franklin Building Co. Structural Engineer: Stand Structural Engineering Real Estate Agent: Andrew Bash,

Sotheby’s International Realty Staircase Design: Iron Path

Steel; Dane Fabrication Landscaper: ALLCAT Landscaping

Appliances: Dacor and Bertazzoni Cabinets and Closet:

HD Modern Countertops: Any Top Shop Electronics: Four

Lanes TECH Fireplace: Woodland Direct; HD Modern Rugs:

Surya Hardware: Tiburon Hardware Lighting Fixtures: Kuzco

Lighting Plumbing Fixtures: Kohler; ProFlow Roofi ng: Royal

Roofing & Solar Windows: Andersen Windows & Doors

CONTEMPORARY MODERN MOMENTUM

Architect: Bickford & Company Builder: Don Julian Builders

Interior Designer: Teri Stoltz Interior Trim Carpenter:

Bullseye Trim Fireplace Units: Complete Home Concepts

Metal Floating Staircase with Wood Treads: Custom

Products LLC Plumbing Fixtures: Ferguson Mirrors and

Shower Doors: Fountain Glass Master Tub, Neolith Shower

Walls, Tile, Hardwood, Carpet, Countertops: Kenny’s

Tile Painting: Kreimendahl Painting Interior Trim Material

Supplier: Morgan Wightman Windows: Pella Products of Kansas City Cabinets: Profile Cabinet Plumbing Installer: R & R Plumbing Stone And Hot Rolled Steel: Scott Vick

Masonry Custom Draperies and Window Treatments:

Superior Drapery & Interiors Electrician: Teague Electric

Lighting: Wilson Lighting

ELEVATED ENTERTAINMENT

Architect: WSKF Architects Interior Designer: Amy Thurston

Interiors Contractor: Scott Gann Construction Structural

Engineer: Wallace Design Collective Landscape Contractor: Embassy Landscape Group Landscape Architect/Pool

Designer: Lorax Design Group Pool Contractor: Clearwater

Pools & Spas Lighting Designer: Lighthouse Landscape & Design Precast Concrete (coping, pool deck, walls): Blue Ocean Stone Wood Decking: Geolam Appliances: Hestan/Forno

Bravo Pizza Oven Art: Sage Barnes Cabinets: Custom Wood

Products Closet: The Container Store; Neatly Done Countertops and Fabrication: Canaan Stone Works Rugs and Lighting: RH

Furnishings: RH; custom Hardware: Rejuvenation Plumbing

Fixtures: Delta; Kohler Windows: Pella Windows & Doors

A HOME TO GROW INTO

Architect: Wendlandt & Stallbaumer Architects Interior Designer: Kara Kersten Design Builder: Ambassador Homes

Plumbing & Appliances: Ferguson Tile: International Materials of Design; ProSource; Fireclay Installation: Eddie Cummings Tile Co. Hardwoods: Acme Floor Company Fireplace Stone/ Countertops: Carthage Stoneworks Cabinetry: Profile Cabinet

Lighting: Western Chandelier; Rejuvenation Hardware: Builders

FirstSource; Rejuvenation Trimwork: Borger Construction

Wallpaper: Phillip Jeffries; Wallquest; Hygge & West Installation: Wood Wallcovering

EUROSTAR

Architect: ESC Architects Interior Designer: KOBEL + CO

Contractor: RM Standard Construction Appliances: Lacanche range; Sub-Zero/Wolf Vintage Art Sourced from Chairish: Eric Stefanski; Natalie Obradovich; Rebecca Jack Antiques and Accessories: Prize Home + Garden Cabinets and Closets: Built to Fit Custom Cabinets Kitchen Countertops: Triton Stone Group; Dimensional Stoneworks Hardware Pulls: Waterworks

Lighting Fixtures: Relative Lighting Kitchen Plumbing Fixtures: Waterstone from Ferguson Wall Coverings: Brunschwig & Fils–”Bibliotheque”; Rebel Walls–”Bellewood” Flowers: Bergamot & Ivy

Soo Sunny Park’s shimmering Molten Swing looks ethereal. Suspended in flight down to baggage claim, the undulating facets of glass and plastic manipulate the light as it twines through chain link fencing. Park’s research led her to construct this piece as an ode to Bennie Molten’s big band history in Kansas City. Photo courtesy of BuildKCI and Kansas City Aviation Department.

GREEN GODDESS

Architect/Interior Designer/Contractor: Schloegel Design

Remodel Engineer: Bob D. Campbell & Co. Appliances: Ferguson; Nebraska Furniture Mart Cabinets: W. W.

Wood Products Countertops: Silestone By Cosentino; MSI Surfaces Couch: Crate & Barrel Flooring: SVB Wood

Floors Fabrication: CKF To-The-Trade Showroom: Neenan Company Hardware: Top Knobs Plumbing Fixtures: Brizo faucets/Kohler sinks (all from Neenan) Lighting Fixtures: Olde Brick Lighting; Mitzi; Visual Comfort Lumber: McCray

Lumber Paint: R & S Paint Roofi ng: Larry L. Vaught Roofing Windows, Doors and Trim: Marvin; Kansas City Millwork

ECLECTIC MODERNISM

Architect: McHenry Shaffer Architecture Interior Designer: Jen Wood Interiors Contractor: Schmitt Remodeling Engineer: Apex Engineers, Inc. Landscaper: Justin Wood; PLAID collaborative; KC Concrete; Dimensional Innovations; Standard Sheet Metal Appliances: Factory Direct (Sub-Zero and Wolf) Art: Michael Snodgrass; Glenna Adkins; Julie Wood; Jane Gallagher; Kaiser Suidan; Mike Dargas Cabinets: Parks Cabinets Countertops: Stone Surface Inc. Electronics: Fuzion Audio Video–Brandon Brooks Flooring: Acme Floor Company Fabrication: Wine

Rack–Janssen Glass and VintageView; Custom Dining Table and Entry Console–Dimensional Innovations Rugs: CB2; West Elm; FLOR; Vintage Oriental Furnishings: RH; West Elm; Golden & Pine; Design Within Reach; Crate & Barrel Accessories: Golden & Pine; Virginia Sin; Etsy; Family Tree Nursery; Crate & Barrel

Hardware: Top Knobs Plumbing Fixtures: Ferguson–Kohler

Lighting Fixtures: Design Within Reach; Arhaus; Crate & Barrel; West Elm Wall Coverings: Drop It Modern Windows: Andersen

Windows & Doors

BLACK AND WHITE

Interior Designer: Luna Interiors Contractor: Willis Custom Homes New Home Community: Loch Lloyd Appliances: Thermador Art: Custom artwork arranged by designer, framed at Art & Frame Warehouse Cabinets: Harris Cabinet Design

Countertops: Stone Surface Inc. Flooring: ProSource Furniture: KDR Designer Showrooms To-The-Trade Showrooms: Designer’s Library; KDR Designer Showrooms Hardware: Modern Matter

Lighting Fixtures: Wilson Lighting Plumbing Fixtures: Ferguson

Wall Coverings: Schumacher Paint: Sherwin-Williams Windows: Pella Windows & Doors Window Coverings: Fabricut

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Overland Park, KS 66209

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Clean has never looked so good. KOHLER brings their best to all their new looks, including the Statement and Anthem collections. A sophisticated combination of technology and minimalism that echoes beauty throughout your next project.

Simple Sophistication

Clean has never looked so good. KOHLER brings their best to all their new looks, including the Statement and Anthem collections. A sophisticated combination of technology and minimalism that echoes beauty throughout your next project.

Clean has never looked so good. KOHLER brings their best to all their new looks, including the Statement and Anthem collections. A sophisticated combination of technology and minimalism that echoes beauty throughout your next project.

Customize your dream bath at our exclusive KOHLER Signature Store located in Overland Park, Kansas

Customize your dream bath at our exclusive KOHLER Signature Store located in Overland Park, Kansas

Customize your dream bath at our exclusive KOHLER Signature Store located in Overland Park, Kansas

Clean has never looked so good. KOHLER brings their best to all their new looks, including the Statement and Anthem collections. A sophisticated combination of technology and minimalism that echoes beauty throughout your next project.

Customize your dream bath at our exclusive KOHLER Signature

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Moving Monument

Words by Andrea Darr |

Zondi and Duane Krehbiel—a Reece & ReeceNichols real estate duo—weren’t scared off by a rundown property in the hills of Weston. Other buyers were, but the Krehbiels saw a gem in the rough, and they had ideas on how to polish it up beyond compare.

Zondi envisioned transforming the slope alongside the driveway into a full sensory experience with a monumental water feature. After stopping by Good Earth Water Gardens' showroom for a DIY workshop on how to install a fountain on her patio, Zondi reconsidered the scope and decided to go bigger.

“I have this hillside…,” she said to Dan Stanza, who helped the couple transform their front yard. Co-owned by his brother, Kevin, the company specializes solely in water gardens, from installation to maintenance.

After removing a jungle’s worth of trees and overgrowth, they grabbed a couple of cans of spray paint and laid out two lines that would become the foundation of the large-scale project.

“We had no formal design plans; she trusted our vision,” Dan says.

Good Earth built up the soil and sourced 30 tons of weathered limestone from Southeast Missouri— the kind that won’t disintegrate over time.

Water bubbles up over the top of a trio of urns and cascades downhill into an underground reservoir, where it then gets pumped back up to the top.

“Water adds a living element to the landscape, often in a way that a tree or fire pit can’t,” Dan says. “It creates so much movement, and it’s something you can look at for hours.”

Zondi and Duane participated in the process— planting the trees, bushes and plants. Groundcovers, tropicals and sweet potato vines flourish in the lush environment. A native of South Africa, Zondi also brought an element of her native continent—an elephant—onto the site, seen in a statuette at the top.

Lighting adds another dimension. “It’s a whole new way to engage with the space and use it every day and into the evening,” Dan says.

“Guests see it and feel like they are at a resort,” he adds. But more than for guests, the Krehbiels get to come home every day to a living landscape, with the sights and sounds to put them at ease.

A steep hill presents the perfect natural condition for a multi-head waterfall in Weston.

Photo by Matthew Anderson

Contractor: Good Earth Water Gardens, @goodearthwatergardens

Scan here to watch the project video.

Coming Fall 2023